7 Ways to Exercise Good Judgement
Stress, mental health conditions, and addiction can all compromise our ability to make good judgements. Our current reality has the potential to create a perfect storm of judgement impairment. In the midst of these difficult times, people may do things that they would never do under normal circumstances. We may make poor financial choices, take foolish risks, say inappropriate things, or make short-term decisions with devastating long-term consequences. The following guidelines will help you to test your decisions and ultimately lead you to make good judgments in the face of immense stress.
Seven Guidelines for Good Judgment
1. Good judgment is focusing on choices and decisions that are positive for the long-term. Seek to make decisions based on the best long-range interests. Resist the urge to indulge in instant gratification choices or decisions.
2. Good judgments are well thought out, not rash, or impulsive. Spend time making your decisions without being pressured or rushed. Give yourself some room for contemplation and thoughtfulness. Use the familiar phrase “let me get back to you about that” as a way to help create some time to consider things. Being careful in your planning will yield good results and prevent trouble in the future.
3. Good judgments have the interest of others in mind. Don’t consider your own needs only, rather consider the needs of others as well. Good decisions are built on compassion and understanding of what is important to the people you value most in your life.
4. Good judgment is based on your own values, beliefs and principles: Don’t cheat, lie, steal, manipulate, extort, or violate the boundaries of others. Build good judgments around your own values and positive character traits such as honesty, integrity, responsibility, and love for others.
5. Good judgment requires honesty with yourself. One common self-deception is to believe your judgments are always good and right. Be cautious, knowing that errors in judgment occur frequently in life, especially when we’re under stress or dealing with mental health concerns or addiction. Being honest and open can enable you to see more clearly and discern more accurately.
6. Good judgment is often found in keeping with advice and feedback from your positive support system. Look to trusted advisors and mentors that understand life and have the wisdom of experience. They can be a good source of helpful information and direction. Listen without arguing or debating and accept guidance when you can. For many of us, God is a source of insight and clarity and turning to Him can lead to increased understanding and confidence.
7. Good judgments protect your journey to greater health and well-being. They help you stay on a firm path with stability and strength in your boundaries. They contribute to making decisions that guard your peace and are choices you can be proud of and honest about with others. They support your efforts in becoming the person you are capable of becoming.
As we are faced with an unprecedented situation, it is critical we remain committed to making good judgements. Doing so will help us to feel more in control in a world that currently feels out of control, and set us up for future success when the storm has cleared.
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