Have you tried consciously practicing validation in less important circumstances and monitored reactions? Maybe with other family members, colleagues and friends?
Validating is a skill and learning improves skills. Perhaps you could seek out an opportunity to validate someone around you every single day until it feels much more natural. That would be lovely for those around you of course, and hopefully nice for you too!
T 13 M 7 Me 48 H 46 SS 15 BD 7.14 PA D final 5.16 (H filed)
We receive & we lose, and must try to achieve gratitude & embrace with whole hearts whatever of life that remains after the losses - Dubus
