1198: Caroline Fleck | Harnessing Validation to Deepen Human Connection

People crave feeling understood, but rarely get it. Here, psychologist Dr. Caroline Fleck breaks down validation science that transforms how we connect! Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1198 What We Discuss with Dr. Caroline Fleck: Validation goes beyond praise. It's a precise psychological skill set that allows us to communicate mindfulness, understanding, and empathy to make someone feel seen and accepted. To understand the difference, think of praise as applauding the performance, while validation is accepting the performer. Research shows that validation literally allows us to endure greater physical pain , suggesting its resilience-building power to help us cope with life's countless difficulties. Obversely, invalidation shuts down recall and problem-solving abilities by triggering sympathetic nervous system arousal. On the other hand, validation restores higher cognitive functioning needed for reasoning. Validation skills are powerful across contexts — from relationships and parenting to medicine and even interrogations. But keep in mind that authenticity is critical — fake or forced validation doesn’t work and can even feel condescending, especially to teens. Validation is a skill you can practice and improve. Nurture a mindset of genuine curiosity by asking yourself "What's this person's point?" Start with small steps like attentive listening, nodding, and reflecting words authentically to build stronger trust and connection. And much more... And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course ! Subscribe to our once-a-week Wee Bit Wiser newsletter today and start filling your Wednesdays with wisdom! Do you even Reddit, bro? Join us at r/JordanHarbinger ! This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors : The Cybersecurity Tapes: thecybersecuritytapes.com Uplift Desk: Special offer: upliftdesk.com/jordan Quince: Free shipping & 365-day returns: quince.com/jordan Hiya: 50% off first order: hiyahealth.com/jordan Mint Mobile: Shop plans: mintmobile.com/jhs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .