No one wants to think of themselves as judgmental or close-minded, and hopefully, you’re not. After all, there’s nothing cool about forming ideas about individuals or entire groups of people based on preconceived biases or superficial things that have no bearing on who the person actually is. If you’re truly nonjudgmental, you’ll never do these things.
1. Assume someone’s intelligence based on their job or education
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Just because someone works a blue-collar job or didn’t go to a fancy college doesn’t mean they’re not smart. Some of the most brilliant minds never set foot in a university. And plenty of highly educated people lack common sense. True intelligence comes in many forms and isn’t defined by a degree or paycheck. Nonjudgmental people understand this and don’t make snap judgments about someone’s intellect based on superficial factors. They take the time to actually get to know a person’s thoughts and abilities before forming an opinion.
2. Criticize someone’s parenting choices
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Unless a child is being abused or neglected, it’s not your place to critique someone else’s parenting. Every family is different, with their own unique challenges and dynamics. What works for one may not work for another. Nonjudgmental people recognize this and refrain from offering unsolicited advice or making snide remarks about how people choose to raise their kids. They understand that parenting is a deeply personal journey and trust that most parents are doing their best with the resources and knowledge they have.
3. Belittle someone’s religious or spiritual beliefs
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Religion and spirituality are highly intimate and complex topics. Nonjudgmental people respect this and don’t mock or dismiss beliefs that differ from their own. They recognize that faith is a deeply personal choice and that there are many paths to finding meaning and purpose in life. Even if they don’t agree with someone’s beliefs, they don’t belittle or try to convince them to think differently. They understand that everyone is entitled to explore their own spirituality without facing criticism or judgment from other people.
4. Judge someone’s spending habits or financial situation
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Money is a sensitive subject for many people. Nonjudgmental individuals understand this and don’t make assumptions about someone’s financial situation or criticize their spending habits. They recognize that everyone has different priorities, responsibilities, and circumstances that influence their financial decisions. They don’t shame someone for splurging on a luxury item or judge them for living paycheck to paycheck. Instead, they offer support and empathy, knowing that finances can be a source of stress and anxiety for many people.
5. Criticize someone’s appearance or body
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Nonjudgmental people don’t make nasty comments about someone’s looks or body. They understand that appearance is not an indicator of worth or character, and that everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. They don’t pressure anyone to conform to unrealistic beauty standards or make them feel self-conscious about their physical features. Instead, they focus on inner qualities and treat everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of how they look.
6. Make assumptions about someone’s relationship status or love life
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Nonjudgmental people don’t pry into someone’s romantic life or make assumptions about their relationship status. They understand that love and relationships are complex and that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finding happiness and fulfillment. They don’t judge someone for being single, divorced, or in an unconventional relationship. Instead, they respect people’s privacy and trust that they are making the best choices for themselves and their unique circumstances.
7. Judge someone’s taste in music, movies, or hobbies
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They don’t mock someone for liking a particular band, movie, or hobby. They recognize that taste is subjective and that everyone has the right to enjoy what they love without facing ridicule or criticism. They don’t make anyone feel embarrassed or inferior for their interests, even if they don’t personally share them. Instead, they show curiosity and respect for the things that bring joy and fulfillment to other people’s lives.
8. Criticize someone’s food choices or diet
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Nonjudgmental people don’t shame anyone for their eating habits or make unsolicited comments about their diet. They understand that food is a deeply personal and often emotional topic and that everyone has different nutritional needs, preferences, and goals. They don’t judge someone for indulging in a treat or following a specific eating plan. Instead, they respect everyone’s autonomy and trust that they are making the best choices for their own health and well-being.
9. Make assumptions about someone’s political beliefs
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People who are truly nonjudgmental don’t automatically assume someone’s political affiliation based on their demographics or jump to conclusions about their stance on specific issues. They recognize that political beliefs are complex and nuanced, and that people can hold a variety of views that don’t necessarily fit neatly into one party or ideology. They don’t dismiss or demonize those with different opinions, but instead seek to understand their perspective and engage in respectful dialogue.
10. Judge someone’s mental health struggles
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They don’t stigmatize or dismiss mental health issues. They understand that mental illness is a real and serious concern that affects people from all walks of life. They don’t tell someone to “just get over it” or make them feel weak or defective for struggling with depression, anxiety, or other conditions. Instead, they offer compassion, support, and encouragement, and recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
11. Criticize someone’s career choices or goals
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Nonjudgmental people don’t belittle someone’s job or make them feel inferior for their career aspirations. They understand that success and fulfillment look different for everyone, and that there are many paths to finding meaning and purpose in one’s work. They don’t judge someone for pursuing an unconventional or low-paying field, or for prioritizing family or personal interests over climbing the corporate ladder. Instead, they respect everyone’s choices and offer support and encouragement in achieving their unique goals.
12. Make assumptions about someone’s life experiences or struggles
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They don’t assume they know everything about someone’s life based on limited information or surface-level interactions. They understand that everyone has a complex story and has faced challenges and struggles that may not be immediately apparent. They don’t minimize or dismiss someone’s experiences or compare them to their own. Instead, they approach people with empathy and an open mind, and take the time to listen and understand their unique perspective.
13. Judging someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity
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They definitely don’t make assumptions about someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity based on their appearance or mannerisms. They understand that these are deeply personal aspects of identity that can’t be neatly categorized or defined by external stuff. They don’t use slurs or derogatory language, or make anyone feel ashamed or abnormal for who they are. Instead, they treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of how they identify or who they love.
