In daily life we are constantly faced with the need to make decisions. From simple decisions like what clothes to wear, to more complex decisions like choosing a college major or changing jobs, our daily lives are full of choices we must make. In these situations, one of the most important elements to consider is one's own criteria, which plays a crucial role in the decision-making process.
¿ What is self-judgment?
Self-judgment, also known as personal judgment or internal judgment, refers to each individual's ability to evaluate a situation, weigh the available options, and make a decision based on their own beliefs, values, experiences and knowledge. It is the internal compass that guides our choices and actions, and allows us to act in accordance with what we consider correct or appropriate.
Self-judgment is closely related to the autonomy and independence of a person. It involves trusting oneself and the ability to make decisions that reflect our identity, tastes and personal objectives. Through the development of one's own judgment, people can strengthen their self-esteem, their self-confidence, and their sense of control over their life.
Factors that influence one's own judgment
One's own judgment It does not arise from nowhere, but is influenced by a series of factors, both internal and external:
1. Personal experiences:
Our past experiences have a significant impact on the formation of our own criteria. The decisions we made in the past, the results we obtained, and the lessons learned influence how we evaluate similar situations in the future.
2. Values and beliefs:
Our personal values and beliefs are fundamental in making decisions based on our own criteria. What we consider important, fair or ethical guides our choices and helps us define which options are most in line with our way of seeing the world.
3. Social influences:
Our social environment, including family, friends, media and culture, also impacts our own judgment. The opinions and expectations of others can influence our decisions, sometimes to the detriment of our own judgment.
4. Knowledge and skills:
Our level of education, work experience, cognitive and emotional skills also play a role in forming our own criteria. The more informed we are and the more developed our capabilities are, the more solid our decisions will be.
The importance of one's own criteria in decision making
Having solid and well-developed own criteria It is key to making decisions that satisfy us on a personal level and lead us towards our objectives. Below are some reasons why one's own judgment is essential in the decision-making process:
1. Authenticity:
By basing our decisions on our own criteria, we act authentically and consistent with who we really are. This allows us to maintain integrity and consistency in our choices, which strengthens our self-image and self-esteem.
2. Responsibility:
By making decisions based on our own judgment, we assume responsibility for the consequences of our actions. This empowers us and makes us aware that we are the main protagonists of our lives and that our decisions have a direct impact on our well-being.
3. Empowerment:
Developing self-judgment empowers us by giving us the confidence to trust our abilities and our ability to solve problems and face challenges. It makes us less dependent on external approval and more able to trust our intuition and knowledge.
4. Adaptability:
Having our own flexible and adaptable criteria allows us to face new or unexpected situations more easily. Instead of depending exclusively on external rules or the opinions of others, we can adapt our criteria to changing circumstances and make wise decisions in diverse contexts.
5. Emotional well-being:
Making decisions aligned with our own criteria contributes to our emotional and psychological well-being. By acting in accordance with what we believe is right or appropriate, we reduce stress, anxiety and indecision, allowing us to enjoy greater peace of mind and satisfaction with our choices.
Challenges in the development of judgment own
Although one's own judgment is a crucial element in decision-making, its development can face various challenges that hinder its full expression. Some of the most common obstacles that can affect a person's ability to trust their own judgment include:
1. External influences:
Social pressures, the expectations of others, advertising and the bombardment of information can distort our own judgment and lead us to make decisions that do not reflect our true preferences. It is important to learn to discern between what we really want and what others expect of us.
2. Fear of failure:
The fear of failure or making mistakes can paralyze a person and make it difficult to make decisions based on their own criteria. It is essential to learn to accept that mistakes are part of learning and that even wrong decisions can be opportunities to grow and improve.
3. Lack of self-knowledge:
To trust our own judgment, it is necessary to know our strengths, weaknesses, values and goals. The lack of self-knowledge can lead to impulsive decisions or decisions based on other people's criteria, instead of on our own identity and needs.
4. Insecurity:
Self-doubt can undermine confidence in one's own judgment and lead a person to constantly seek external approval or postpone important decisions for fear of making mistakes. Working on developing self-confidence and self-esteem is essential to strengthen one's own judgment.
5. Lack of clarity in objectives:
If we are not clear about our objectives and priorities, it is more difficult to make decisions consistent with our own criteria. Establishing clear goals aligned with our values gives us a guide to evaluate the available options and make decisions that bring us closer to what we really want.
Tips to strengthen our own judgment
Strengthen Self-judgment is a continuous process that requires self-knowledge, self-confidence and the ability to analyze. Below are some practical tips to develop and strengthen your own judgment:
1. Know your values:
Identify which values guide your life and your decisions. Reflect on what is really important to you and how those values can influence your daily choices.
2. Practice internal listening:
Spend time listening to your own needs, desires, and opinions. Connect with yourself through meditation, writing or personal reflection, to learn to recognize your inner voice and trust it.
3. Learn to say no:
Set clear limits and learn to reject what does not resonate with you or that goes against your values and goals. Saying no when necessary is a sign of authenticity and self-affirmation.
4. Broaden your horizons:
Exposing yourself to new experiences, cultures, ideas and perspectives can enrich your own judgment and expand your vision of the world. Open your mind to diversity and be flexible in your opinions and beliefs.
5. Seek constructive feedback:
Ask for the opinion of trusted people who know you well and who can offer you constructive and honest criticism. Learn to listen to different points of view and consider them without losing sight of your own perspective.
6. Accept responsibility:
Assume the consequences of your decisions and learn from mistakes. Responsibility is a fundamental pillar in the development of one's own judgment, since it makes you aware of your ability to influence your environment and your life.
7. Practice decision making:
Making decisions consciously and proactively is crucial to strengthening one's judgment. Practice decision making in everyday situations and analyze the results to learn and improve in the process.
Conclusions
Your own criteria are an essential element in decision making, since It allows us to act in an authentic, responsible and empowered way, in line with our personal values and goals. Developing solid and well-founded judgment requires self-knowledge, self-confidence, and analytical skills. Through practice, reflection and openness to new experiences, we can strengthen our own judgment and make decisions that lead us towards a more satisfying and fulfilling life.