TIME FOR A JUDGEMENT DETOX?

PUT YOUR PRECONCEIVED IDEAS ON HOLD AND YOU COULD FIND YOURSELF HAPPIER AND HEALTHIER THAN EVER

- LESLEY JONES

In this “swipe left” world, we’re all guilty of making snap decisions about people, places and situations. From a blind date’s choice of shoes to a misspelt wedding invite – our split- second verdicts of right and wrong shape how we see the world, and our futures.

But now experts are warning that all this instant decision-making could harm our relationships, scupper career moves and limit our chances of finding happiness. It’s time to take a “Judgement Detox” and analyse the speedy choices that might well be holding you back.

Kamalyn Kaur, a psychotherapist and anxiety expert based in Glasgow, recommends this detox to clients who want to get their personal and business lives back on track.

“Judgement detoxing is a practice where you become very aware of your thoughts, beliefs and opinions – and you tackle them with more kindness and compassion,” she says.

“Looking for evidence to support your instant thoughts will mean that the judgmental side of you isn’t interfering with the day-to-day functioning in your life. Ask yourself, ‘Where is the evidence to prove my judgements are true?’”

Kamalyn says we should all try this method whenever we find ourselves in the midst of any situation of conflict, doubt or emotional imbalance.

“Instant decision-making can lead to lower self-confidence, self-doubt and subsequently feeling like a failure when those decisions go wrong. But by taking a judgement detox you help avoid the stress and anxiety which will otherwise impact happiness and your mental health,” she says.