Why Do We Judge?

It seems judgment has become a huge part of our society. We judge others, we judge ourselves, we judge pretty much everything. While there is some value in making judgments, being over judgmental is a bad thing. It got me thinking, why is it that we judge? I did a little research and found a great article that helped explain the reasons for why we judge people.

The article made a great point and that is, when people make a judgment about you, it will only bother you if you judge yourself for that same reason. For example, say someone makes a negative comment about about your appearance. That comment would likely only bother you if you are insecure about that aspect of your appearance. If you are completely comfortable with how you look, people's judgments will not have the same effect on you.

One of the main reasons I find why people judge others is because they are envious or jealous of them. Have you ever known someone who just seems to have everything going well for them, you know, they are good looking, smart, funny, and everyone likes them? Do you ever find yourself thinking negatively about them and trying to find things they are not so good at? This is negative judgment. I find myself doing this from time to time, but try to stop myself and reflect why I am making these judgments.

Often people have a negative self image and try to bring themselves up by putting others down.  It is best not only to avoid doing this yourself but also not let it bother you when other people try to put you down. In most cases they are not unhappy with you, but in actuality they are unhappy with themselves.

According to the article the key is to observe characteristics of others but not to take an emotional stance on it, rather accept it for what it is. Try to be open minded and learn from others differences instead of trying to convince yourself that what they look like or how they are is wrong. It is not easy, but if you can be more accepting and understanding of others, they may be more willing to return the favor.