Using vs. Passing Judgment

n A career in the helping professions can be very gratifying, but over time the helper can become affected by Vicarious Trauma. Vicarious Trauma has the capacity to impact our cognitive schema or how we tend to construct our thoughts. This challenge can set the helper up to become judgmental of him/herself and others. Clients and colleagues start to be coined as abusive or offensive. We start to see ourselves as inadequate or incompetent. The symptom of being judgmental of ourselves can lead to depression. The tendency to pass judgment on others helps us to feel powerless and at the mercy of someone else’s behavior. This can lead to anxiety. While it is important at times to authentically evaluate a situation so that we can use sound judgment on how to proceed, there are times when it is equally important to refrain from passing judgment so that moving forward is less stressful and more centered.
Using sound judgment means that we ask ourselves,” What so I need to do in this situation to serve its best and highest purpose?’ Passing judgment means we make statements like, “This situation is hopeless, this person is awful and I am useless at my job.” The former suggests we have faith that we will determine how to effectively proceed no matter how upsetting any particular interaction may be. The latter suggests that we are suffering from Second-Hand Shock™ and are unconsciously engaging in judgmental behaviors as a powerful distraction from our struggle with this silent thief.
If you find yourself repeatedly passing judgment on yourself and others, you may be struggling with Vicarious Trauma. Untreated, this will rob you of health and spiritedness. Notice what you are doing and get yourself the help you deserve!