A critical tool to de-escalate an argument, increase vulnerability, and build connection

This one's for you if:

• You want to respond better when your partner is upset

• You’ve been accused of being dismissive or defensive

• You crave a deeper, safer emotional connection

• You’re learning to unlearn codependent or conflict-avoidant behaviors

• You're building emotional intelligence and recovery-informed relationship skills

In today’s episode of Worthy of Work, we’re diving into one of the most powerful and underused tools in healthy relationships: emotional validation.

We’ll cover:

• Why validation matters more than explanation

• A 3-step framework you can use in any emotionally charged moment

• Real-life examples and simple scripts to start using right away

Validation isn’t about giving in or taking blame. It’s about showing someone their emotions make sense in light of their experience — even when you see things differently. It’s the foundation of emotional safety, and it’s a skill you can start practicing today.

💬 Key takeaway: You don’t have to agree with someone’s emotions to validate them. You just have to stop, listen, and say, “That makes sense.”

If this episode resonates, share it with someone who could use this skill. Relationship tools are worth spreading — and you are worthy of the work to build better relationships.

🎧 Worthy of Work is where we unpack the relationship skills no one taught us — and start practicing the ones we never thought we were allowed to have.