How to Navigate a Judgmental World While Embracing Criticism

/ Victor Ojei

I came across a post recently, about the society being judgmental, and how we need to embrace empathy in our dealings with others. Rather than being judgmental, we should be more compassionate and ask what they have been through. This topic is a very complex one, and my take on it goes as follows.

To begin, the term judgmental represents the act of showing a tendency to form critical opinions about individuals or situations, often in a disapproving or harsh way.

I am of the belief that practicing empathy as a culture, is a societal game changer. The qualities of humanity is centered around empathy, as it is the highest form of the human nature. However, while we are at it, it is also very important for us to understand the concept of empathy, and not confuse it with weakness.

Criticism is not the lack of empathy.

To avoid criticism, is to avoid accountability. While we foster a society built on the societal culture; empathy, mutual respect, it is vital to not shy away from accountability.

However, while we embrace criticism, it also vital to not forget the society culture; empathy, mutual respect, as both work hand in hand to build a successful society, where everyone is respected and included.

Among the price one pays for living in a society, is criticism.

So long that people are of different opinions, be sure to expect criticism. It is the byproduct of living in a society. Knowing and understanding these facts is very vital for our collective growth and advancement.

No amount of sensitization will change that, because it is not a problem to be solved, rather, something to be understood. This is the human nature, and to fix it, is to in fact cause people to stop being people. Though, it is ideal to try and understand the views of others, one cannot also force individuals to accept their views, and not be judgmental.

In essence, it is improper to try and shield oneself from criticism, as criticism is, and will always be a critical part of the human nature. Accountability is an important human trait, if we are to make any advancement as a society. Criticism isn’t the lack of empathy, rather, what criticism needs.

©️ Victor E. Ojei, 2025.

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12 thoughts on “How to Navigate a Judgmental World While Embracing Criticism”

  1. In my humble experience in life there is a difference between being judgmental and criticism. But yes I fully agree constructive criticism should be taken with an open mind to improve ourselves. Great post Damon

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    • Nice input jam.
      I love that you separated the two. Criticism should come with empathy, that I accept. The point i am trying to make is though empathy is ideal, it is almost impossible to stop people from being judgmental. This is the price we pay for being a part of the society, and understanding this in itself helps one be more empathetic in carrying out criticisms.

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  3. Hi Damon. This is an insightful post. We would be so much better for it, if we were more empathetic towards others. Criticism can be hard to take, depending on the situation but it can be necessary as well. Thank you for sharing.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    • Thank you. You are welcome to my blog.
      Indeed criticism can sometimes be hard to take. The truth is, you don’t have to take it, not all criticism is right. However, everyone needs to wear accountability as a personality trait. Accountability is a culture that is missing in today’s world.

      Liked by 1 person

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