How to be Less Judgmental (Of Other People – and Yourself) | La Sarmiento

Self-Worth

The journey towards self-worth often involves overcoming internalized judgments and self-doubt. La Sarmiento shares their personal experience of realizing inherent worth, emphasizing that self-acceptance is a birthright, not something to be earned through external validation or achievements 1. They highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing the internal dialogue that often undermines self-worth, sharing a personal anecdote of feeling anxious before appearing on the podcast 2.

Accept yourself, love yourself. If other people don't love or accept you, it's not about you.

--- La Sarmiento

By acknowledging these feelings and using mindfulness practices, La demonstrates how to navigate self-doubt and embrace one's true value.

   

Compassion

Motivation can be driven by self-compassion rather than self-criticism. La Sarmiento discusses the importance of examining the motivations behind our actions, questioning whether they stem from fear or a genuine desire to contribute positively to the world 3. They advocate for a shift from self-judgment to self-compassion, suggesting that recognizing when we drift off in meditation should be celebrated as a moment of awareness rather than self-criticism 4.

If we can just say we can just begin again, it's like we just start all over again. It's not a problem.

--- La Sarmiento

This approach fosters a healthier, more sustainable form of motivation that is rooted in love and acceptance rather than fear and inadequacy.

   

Compassionate Acceptance

Cultivating compassion involves understanding and accepting both our inner demons and the judgments we hold towards others. La Sarmiento explains how acknowledging and thanking our inner critics can transform self-judgment into self-compassion 5. They recount a personal story of healing their relationship with their mother by accepting her as she is, without endorsing her views 6.

It's just accepting that this is the way she is. I can love her anyway, but I don't have to agree with her.

--- La Sarmiento

This distinction between a person's inherent goodness and their behavior allows for compassion and understanding, even in challenging relationships.