Judgement vs. Discernement
Judgment is an inherent human behavior that involves forming opinions or evaluations about people, situations, or ideas. It is a cognitive process through which we make sense of the world around us. We categorize information based on our beliefs, values, and personal experiences. Our brain is designed to judge and categorize, to keep us safe (so no judgement if you judge).
However when we judge, we impose our biases and assumptions onto situations and individuals. And the act of judging often clouds our perception, limiting our ability to truly understand and empathise with others. This hinders our capacity to see the full picture and recognise the complexity of human experiences. Constant judgment can also create a toxic cycle that perpetuates negativity, fostering division and misunderstanding.
Key Aspects of Judgment:
1. Quick Assessment: Judgment tends to involve hasty evaluations without sufficient examination or understanding of the complexities involved.
2. Biases and Preconceptions: Judgment can be influenced by unconscious biases, personal prejudices, or societal conditioning.
3. Polarising Attitudes: Harsh judgment can create division and hinder open dialogue. It can lead to an "us versus them" mentality.
4. Negative Emotional Impact: Judgment can foster feelings of resentment, anger, or inadequacy in both the judger and the judged.
Discernment on the other hand, is a process rooted in careful observation, reflection, and intuition. It involves a thoughtful evaluation of circumstances, people, or ideas with an open mind and a willingness to seek deeper understanding. Discernment arises from a place of wisdom, compassion, and a genuine desire to make informed choices aligned with our values and aspirations.
Discernment enables us to reflect on our experiences, set boundaries, and make choices aligned with our values and aspirations.
Key Aspects of Discernment:
1. Open-mindedness: Discernment requires us to suspend preconceived notions and remain receptive to new perspectives. It encourages us to approach situations with curiosity and a willingness to explore diverse possibilities.
2. Insightful Observation: Discernment involves keen observation and a deep awareness of the subtleties and nuances present in a given situation. It goes beyond surface-level assessments, allowing us to grasp the underlying dynamics and motivations.
3. Empathy and Compassion: Discernment embraces empathy and compassion, enabling us to consider the emotions, needs, and intentions of others. It encourages us to approach evaluations with kindness and understanding, fostering connection and cooperation.
4. Conscious Decision-making: By exercising discernment, we make choices based on an integration of our intuitive wisdom and thoughtful analysis. This process helps us align our decisions with our values and long-term goals.
What would life feel like if you would judge less and discern more?
