3 Thoughts That Will Help You Stop Judging Others

When someone does something unexpected or unpleasant, we often react quickly and start forming a negative impression of them. We might begin to judge their character based on a few actions that we can't quite understand. But the truth is, sometimes doing that is a little unfair.

If we thought about the situation a bit more carefully, we might come to a different conclusion. Anyway, here are some interesting reasons as to why we should stop judging others so harshly.

1. We all have 'bad' days

One thought that could help us be a little less judgmental is the fact that we all have bad days. You might be excited and happy and expect everyone around you to feel like that. If you come across someone who is not as cheerful as you would like, it is best not to take it personally or label them a grumpy person (as easy as that might be). Sometimes we just don't feel 100%. And we would hate it if someone else formed a negative opinion of us based on that one time. Try and give that person the benefit of the doubt and don't let that one encounter ruin the way you interact the next time you see them.

2. They might be fighting a battle you know nothing about

Another reason to stop judging others so harshly is that you never know the whole story. Have you struggled with something extremely painful and overwhelming that you can't speak about? You might have found it hard to go about day to day activities or engage in normal conversation. You sit hurt and in silence because you know the other person will never understand what you're going through. Sadly, such scenarios happen frequently.

This might be the case if someone you know to be a cheerful and happy person suddenly starts acting differently and withdraws from their environment. This is where being sensitive and loving, not judgemental comes in, because they might be fighting a circumstance we know nothing about. In such a situation, let the other person know you're there if they need a listening ear, and always be gentle. You never know how much your understanding and reassuring spirit might might help to heal the other person.

3. They might have NO idea

You feel really offended at another person's actions. And what's more, you're mad. They are totally acting like they don't know or care about how they've made you feel.

Well, they might not know.

Sometimes, we feel like someone else been spiteful or unjust, but the other person might have no idea that we feel that way. Think about times when you've said something and not realised that the other person would take it badly. Sometimes it happens. This is where all that 'communication' stuff comes in.

The best way to find out if someone is 'out to get you' or not is to mildly approach and talk to them about it. Don't make a huge fuss, but tell them how you feel and try to discern their attitude. People see situations differently and they might have no clue that they had offended you. If this is true, a true friend will likely explain the situation and apologise for the misunderstanding. Even without an apology, try to brush it off and not take it so personally.

People are not always as mean as we think. Sometimes we just have to look beyond the surface and see what may be happening - or better yet, let it go.

These are some ways that we can enjoy better relationships with others by being more open and less judgemental.

What do you think? Any other ideas on ways to stop judging others so harshly? Comment below!