Releasing the Judge

We are all hearing the call of forward movement. Although job loss, relationships faltering and institutions crumbling may not feel much like progress, they are all ways in which we are being propelled toward our individual and collective truths. We are also evolving as we forge ahead. Many of us are being released from judgment in response to all these significant changes. If you’re feeling the tug to let go of judgment, you might discover that you’re no longer viewing many actions, behaviors or events as either right or wrong. They simply are.
The natural first step is to apply this perspective outward. For parents, caregivers, bosses and teachers, not judging allows us to see those in our charge as their own individuals instead of being reflections of ourselves. It also enables us to reframe what we consider to be their motivations and not make assumptions. We are freed to approach them with empathy rather than be authoritarian. This then leads them to grasp that any consequences are a result of their behavior instead of a punishment or reward. Our hearts are filled with ease.
In relationships, no matter the stage or status, non-judgment makes it possible for us to not take fluctuations in mood personally. It further gives us the ability to recognize that, like us, our mates are changing. We understand that we can’t assume all behaviors and reactions fit past patterns. We see our loved-ones with fresh eyes and possibly our excitement and curiosity are rekindled.
The Business industry is remarkably altered when judgment is no longer present. There is a sense of abundance and acknowledgment that there is room for everyone, while abandoning the concept of fearful competition. In this new climate, success carries a different meaning.
Whereas it might be fairly obvious that feelings of hate, malice, resentment, anger, jealousy, envy and contempt are judgments, other emotions and responses are slightly less so. For example, pity would seem caring, kind even. When examined more closely it is actually a projection of your values onto others. Similar are expectation (even when it is for high and for good) and intolerance (despite it being used for high standards—i.e. improving health through non-smoking). An important distinction to make here is that this standpoint is not a total rejection of morality or ethics. Rather, it is honoring others while realizing we are all connected and being aware that everyone’s path is sacred.
While looking at others non-judgmentally may be the primary approach, the potentially more spiritually challenging one is to focus that same attitude internally. Unconditionally accepting traits that we’ve thought of as negative is illuminating. By embracing these “faults” as part of your identity, you can not only perceive them more objectively, but also gets to the heart of what drives you. Apprehending what the underlying issues are provides us with the opportunity for conscious choice. Do you want to change that aspect or were you just being too hard on yourself?
It may appear as though little collective harm is being done when we heed the inner critic, but how we view ourselves has a great impact on us all. Shame, regret, worry, and self-doubt can be paralyzing. They affect the quality of your life and how you interact with others. Importantly, these ways of looking at yourself and your overall faith in yourself is sometimes passed onto the next generation. Children will take on these traits. Imagine the impact of breaking the chain.
Ridding yourself of the concept of “should” as it applies to obligation to one’s self is liberating. By consistently relying on your own intuition, you create a life in stark contrast to the one inspired by self-judgment. You joyfully exist in a state of faith, trust, gratitude and peace knowing that your inner wisdom is a certainty.
Indeed, just as we are transforming as a result of these major life events, our internal shifts will force more external reform. We will stop buying products we don’t need. We will quit our unfulfilling jobs and follow our passions. These actions will cause more businesses to close their doors, while others will flourish. We will end some long-standing relationships and begin anew. Following our truths does and will have a potent effect. The release of judgment is a powerful and peaceful force to be embraced.