Seek Support, Not Approval: A Lesson in Self-Belief

For years, I admired his work. I was inspired by his success and the way he had built something extraordinary. I had idolised his journey and, deep down, I wanted him to approve of mine.

Last year, I flew halfway around the world for an incredible conference, led by one of the most influential thought leaders and entrepreneurs of our time—Vishen Lakhiani. As the founder of Mindvalley, he was someone I had followed closely, a role model I deeply respected.

At the event, there was a moment when I finally got to say hello—and something inside me started to shift.

Chasing Approval

The first time I approached him, it was just a fleeting interaction—he was in a hurry, and all I managed to say was:

“Thank you for that great presentation—this event is incredible!”

The next evening, I tried again. I wanted to tell him stories, ask questions, share my ideas. But without realising it, I was carrying a desperate energy—one that sought validation, not just connection. And that energy was enough to push him away.

At the beach party the following night, I asked for a photo, hoping for a more meaningful exchange. But again, he was on the move. I felt frustrated and anxious. I had come all this way, and I had convinced myself that I needed his approval before I could truly move forward.

When we finally took a photo at the end of the night, I realised the moment had already passed.

Awesomeness Fest for Social Entrepreneurs and Changemakers, 2014

An Enlightening Realisation

The next morning, I woke up with mixed emotions. I tried to focus on all the amazing things I had learned, but part of me kept wondering—why didn’t he spend more time with me? Why wasn’t he excited that I was there?

My ego was bruised.

But a week later, after I returned home and reflected, I saw things differently. Why did I believe I needed his approval? What was I waiting for?

And then it hit me: I had been giving away my own power.

In that moment, I understood something profound—the difference between support and approval.

Vishen wasn’t there to grant approval. No one was. That was never the purpose of the event. We were all there to support and learn from each other. The real lesson was in reclaiming my own self-belief.

And for that, I was grateful.

Your Power Comes From Within

So here’s what I learned—and what I invite you to reflect on:

✔ Seek support, not approval. Surround yourself with people who encourage and inspire you—but don’t wait for them to validate your journey.
✔ You are enough. No one else gets to decide when you are ready. That power belongs to you.
✔ Begin anyway. Start before you feel ready. Your journey is yours to define.
✔ Do it your way. The world doesn’t need a replica of someone else’s success—it needs your uniqueness.

Whose permission are you waiting for to be great?

The truth is, you don’t need it. Reclaim your power. Start now.