Balancing Independence & Validation

This week is a bit of a two-parter, as we investigate the relationship between independence and validation. Why are some of us more self-reliant than others? Is it dangerous to rely on external validation (especially from the internet) for personal confidence? Why is a stranger's compliment more fulfilling than the love from your significant other? We also help a listener who is afraid of falling into another codependent romance. Validation is important; but how do you channel that idea into a reality of empowerment and motivation, rather than destruction?