Thursday 1 March 2018

Contemplations: Seeking My Worth From Others

My recent article for Amaliah

How many times does the approval of others make you feel good about yourself?

I wouldn’t have to think twice before responding with a defiant “No way!”, but, deep down I know well and truly that a well-placed compliment puts a spring in my step. I don’t think I’m alone in saying that the appreciation, admiration and confirmation from those around me are often what drives me. When I’m without this, I feel my self-worth slowly slipping away from between my fingers, leaving me abandoned in my own cave of self-loathing.

Too many times I’ve felt let down by those around me – under appreciated and undervalued, resulting in a deep-rooted bitterness. But are the people around me really to blame? Sure, our Deen encourages us to value other people’s feeling so much so that showing gratitude to those around us is an extension of showing gratitude to Allah SWT.

“He has not thanked Allah who has not thanked people.” (Hadith, Abu Dawud 4811)

Image from Amaliah