Tuesday Thoughts And Self Judgement

Isabelle

Feb 123 min read

Hi Friends,

Did you start your grateful jar? Mine is ready to be filled.I was inspired this week to talk about how we are our worst critic. And of course, I don't just want to hold a mirror to your face, I also want to give you some guidelines to get out of critic mode. And here is the first step:

The Power of Observing Instead of Judging

Have you ever caught yourself scolding yourself like a strict parent, pointing an imaginary finger and saying things like, "Why did you do that again?" or "You should know better by now!"? That inner critic is quick to judge, but what if we could shift to simply observing instead?

Imagine replacing judgment with curiosity. Instead of, "How stupid of me," try, "Oh, I did that again—interesting. What was happening in that moment?"

Why Observation is More Powerful than Judgment

Judgment shuts us down. It creates shame and makes us feel like we need to "fix" ourselves. But observation opens the door to awareness and change. When we observe with neutrality, we can understand our patterns, learn from them, and move forward with kindness instead of self-punishment.

Think of it this way: if a friend came to you struggling with a habit, would you scold her and tell her how dumb she is? Of course not! You’d probably say, "I see you’re struggling with this. Let’s take a look at what’s going on." That’s the same compassion we need to give ourselves.

Practical Steps to Shift from Judgment to Observation

Use Post-it Notes as Gentle RemindersPlace a sticky note on your phone, mirror, or laptop with a simple message: " Don't judge" or "Observe first." Let it remind you to shift your tone.

Take a Deep Breath Before ReactingWhen you catch yourself judging, pause. Take a deep breath. This small action interrupts the habit of self-criticism and allows space for a more compassionate response.

Check-in With YourselfAsk: "What just happened? What was I feeling?" Instead of berating yourself, get curious about the moment. Maybe you were stressed, tired, or distracted. Understanding the trigger can help you move forward instead of beating yourself up.

Reframe "I Have to Do More" ThinkingInstead of saying, "I need to be better," try, "I’m learning. I’m taking small steps." Growth happens through small, gentle shifts, not through self-criticism.

A Kinder Approach to Change

When we replace judgment with observation, we stop being our own worst enemy and become our own compassionate guide. Give yourself permission to notice instead of scold, to learn instead of punish. One deep breath, one small step at a time—you’re already doing better than you think.

This week's affirmation

"I am learning to observe myself with kindness and curiosity. Growth comes through love, not judgment."

Isabelle

Need Support?

If this is something you struggle with, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’d love to be your guide on this journey to self-compassion. Let’s work together to help you break free from self-judgment and step into a gentler way of being. Reach out to me, and let’s take the first step together.

PS: Message me for a free consult to start moving toward a more gentler you.

You are loved. Deeply loved. Loved beyond measure.

Until next time,