Sometimes, I think this is what most people need. It’s not about whether or not someone understands the problem you’re dealing with, but that someone can take the time to understand. But sometimes, best of all, it’s nice to know that you’re not the only one.
My first year in grad school I was afraid and anxious. I kept wondering if I was qualified to be there and if I was capable enough to survive grad school. Yes, I know that there are other people who do well and are able to do it, but I didn’t feel like I was excellent enough a student to be there. So when I found out that some of my other classmates felt like I did, felt overwhelmed, scared, and afraid, I felt so much better knowing that I wasn’t the only one who had this feeling of self-doubt.
Even if you can’t personally relate, validating someone’s feelings can just mean so much more to them. I know it does for me.
Back to the work!
Four more weeks!
Eeek!
Validation is absolutely important! I’m not even in graduate school but have definitely felt as though I’m not qualified to be in the program that I’m in and definitely haven’t had the courage to consider grad school. It does help knowing others are in similar situations, and is awesome when someone just listens and tries to relate – regardless of the situation.