Your Hype Squad Called

They’re Already Inside You

Why are we so hooked on validation? Maybe it’s because someone clapped a little too enthusiastically when we took our first baby steps, and now we’re chasing that high like it’s the Approval Championship. But let’s face it, no one’s handing out trophies for drinking water today. (Although seriously, staying hydrated deserves a standing ovation—it’s not easy to remember.)

For the longest time, I played the waiting game. I’d cook a meal and wait for someone to gush over it. Dress up and wait for compliments. Put in extra effort and wait for someone to notice. And let me tell you, waiting is exhausting—especially when the praise either doesn’t come or feels more meh than meaningful.

It’s like life runs on its own schedule of appreciation. Some days, you get a pat on the back; other days, you might as well be invisible. And then there are the days when someone says, Great job, but it sounds like they’re reading off a script.

Cue the insecurities. They start piling up until one day, life throws a curveball—or maybe just a tiny pebble in your path. For me, it was one of those random moments. Suddenly, I wasn’t scared anymore—not of failing, being judged, or missing out. It felt like the last nail had been hammered into the coffin of my fears.

That’s when it hit me, life doesn’t come with a cheering squad, and you don’t need one. You’ve been your own cheerleader all along. Did you survive a Zoom call without throwing your laptop? That’s a win. Managed to fold laundry without losing half your socks to the void? Throw yourself a mini party.

And now, for a little sarcasm, if this were the old me, I’d probably be sulking because you haven’t commented on this blog yet. But guess what? I’ve grown. These days, I just laugh, sip my coffee, and jot down notes for my future bestseller, "How I Helped Myself," coming to bookstores in, say, 2026. (My self love made me speak a little more than I should have)

But here’s the thing, when you stop waiting for others to clap for you, something magical happens. You stop caring about the applause and start focusing on what really matters—being proud of yourself. It’s a freedom you never knew you needed until you have it.

So here’s my challenge to you: start noticing your own victories, no matter how small. Be your own biggest fan. Did you make it through the day without tripping over your own feet? Applaud. Did you brush your hair this morning? Celebrate. Life’s too short to wait for someone else to tell you how amazing you are.

Go ahead—give yourself the standing ovation you’ve been waiting for. You’ve earned it.

P.S. Like this blog. Or don’t. Either way, I’m busy deciding if my book launch party will have cupcakes or champagne. Probably both.🥂

Cheers

Thank you for reading 

Love

Priyanka Ashokanand