Welcome to the Security Series! In this episode, we're diving deep into a surprising truth: while releasing the need for external approval is crucial, healthy relationships are absolutely fundamental to understanding and experiencing true love and security. It’s not about being "mushy" or self-indulgent; it's about becoming your own ally and building a foundation of inner strength.

We discuss how love, like any vital resource, needs to flow. When it's hoarded or kept in isolation, it stagnates and ultimately dies. Just as an economy needs the flow of money, your emotional well-being needs the flow of give and receive love. This is why the idea of "love yourself" isn't about being alone; it's about being in a position to love and be loved by others, learning what that truly looks like from those around you. We'll explore Dr. Henry Cloud's insights on how we learn love from our earliest relationships and how allowing others to see your flaws and still like you can teach you to like yourself.

But what if you didn't have those strong examples growing up, or you find yourself isolated now? Don't worry, we've got you covered! We'll share actionable advice on how to find healthy relationships that will bolster your security and well-being.

• Why security is about being comfortable and loving yourself, not about self-indulgence.
• The crucial role of others in learning to give and receive love.
• The danger of isolation and how it stunts emotional growth.
• "Green Flags" to look for in healthy friendships: authenticity, the ability to celebrate others, a general slant toward positivity and gratitude, and resilience.
• Where to look for these supportive relationships, including healthy churches and community groups.
• "Red Flags" to watch out for: dependency, consistent negativity, and a habit of quitting.

1. Make a list of "green flag" people in your life to reach out to.
2. Contact them within the next week to start a conversation.
3. Identify any "red flag" relationships that might be holding you back and consider how to create healthy boundaries.

Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on building true security from the inside out! and find more resources at www.thrivingman.com

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In this powerful episode, David Maxwell of Thriving Man tackles a struggle many of us face: releasing the need for approval and letting go of what others think.

David opens with a relatable illustration: trying to impress a professional drummer while playing in a band, highlighting how easy it is to get caught in the trap of focusing on what others think. This desire for external validation can prevent us from truly living as the men we were designed to be. This episode, part of the Insecurity Series, is all about helping you live a thriving life.

The struggle with what others think is not new. From fashion choices to relationship decisions (like picking a partner for appearance rather than connection), we often let external perceptions dictate our lives. David clarifies that it’s not about never caring what people think, but about releasing the need for approval. When you live for others' approval, you lose control of your own life.

Healthy detachment is not coldness or indifference. Instead, it's a mature and balanced way of relating to the world. It allows you to:

• Focus on your individual well-being while engaging in respectful interactions.
• Navigate complex relationships without losing yourself.
• Practice compassion without enmeshment and engagement without undue emotional burden.
• Live authentically, without playing a part or acting out a character.
• Cultivate empathy and build healthy connections, avoiding the people-pleasing trap.

Healthy detachment requires truth:

• Be honest about your own strengths and weaknesses.
• Be truthful in your dealings with others, speaking honestly about your actions.
• Jesus is presented as an example: loving and empathetic, yet speaking uncomfortable truths and not letting others control him.

You cannot control what others think of you, so stop trying. This doesn't mean you don't care, but it means their opinions can't control you. David illustrates this with examples like wearing uncomfortable fashion trends or putting on an "I don't care mask" – both are attempts to control perception. The key is to simply be you.

Trying to control others' opinions often stems from our own insecurity. As you become more secure in who you are, acknowledging both your strengths and weaknesses, you'll develop a peace that permeates all areas of your life. While protecting your name and integrity is important, you ultimately cannot control what happens in other people's minds.

Start by focusing on building your healthy detachment:

• Individual well-being: How are you growing as a man? Explore resources at Thrivingman.com.
• Respectful interactions: Are you cultivating strong friendships and relationships?

By taking these steps to release the need for approval, you will unlock a whole new aspect of your life and truly begin to thrive.

Ready to ditch the "I got it" facade and step into real growth? 💪 This week, we're getting HONEST about our weaknesses and why OWNING them is the key to conquering insecurity! We've all been there, pretending we're fine when the weights are too heavy or relationship struggles weigh us down. It's time to see our vulnerabilities not as failures, but as fertile ground for development.

Remember last week? We talked about embracing a spirit of adventure! Now, we're diving deeper into the journey of conquering insecurity, and HONESTY is our compass. We'll explore why EVERYONE is imperfect, why chasing unattainable perfection sets us up for unhappiness, and how vulnerability is simply an openness to the reality of being human.

Feeling brave? We'll guide you through honestly evaluating yourself (strengths AND weaknesses!), learning from trusted people (even when it's tough to hear!), and inviting the right support into your growth journey.

Stop beating yourself up and start building yourself up! Knowing your weaknesses isn't a defeat; it's the first step to getting stronger.

Stay tuned for next week's video, where we'll tackle the need for others' approval! 👀

honesty, weaknesses, self-awareness, vulnerability, insecurity, personal growth, self-improvement, self-acceptance, imperfection, growth mindset, asking for help, feedback, self-assessment, overcoming insecurity, embracing flaws