3 Ways to Let Go of Self-Judgment

Very often the judgments that you place upon yourselves are the very worst. You can be your worst critic, your worst enemy. Even rock star Pink sings about it in one of her popular songs, saying "I'm a hazard to myself -- Don't let me get me -- I'm my own worst enemy." Have you ever felt like that? Does it seem at times like you can do nothing right? You are filled with self-blame, self-judgment, and anger. It is all a vicious cycle that tends to repeat itself -- robbing us of joy, self-esteem, and fulfillment.

Your actions are based on your thoughts. If you are filled with nothing but self-recrimination, how can your actions be positive and life affirming? It is so important to let go of those self-judgments. It is important to realize that you are never going to reach perfection while on this earth. You will reach and reach for it, and stumble and fall along the way. That's life. The important thing to remember is that each time you fall down is an opportunity to grow and learn. It's even okay to fail at the same thing over and over. For some people, it takes longer to learn the lesson found within the fall. That's okay. Be forgiving of yourself. Be gentle with yourself. You are a child of God, worthy of joy and happiness.

Lee has lived in Charlotte ever since she got married 12 years ago. Her marriage meant leaving her family in order to be with her husband, and her family lives 1000 miles away. Lee fell into a depression that she had a difficult time dealing with. She began to emotionally overeat, and in the process gained 100 pounds. This resulted in a lot of self-loathing, shame, and judgment that only made Lee eat more. It was only when Lee went to a therapist for her problem that she learned the power of self-forgiveness. She was finally able to let go of her shame and self-judgment. This enabled her to begin living her life again. She eventually lost the weight, made a new circle of friends, and had children with her husband.

Here are 3 exercises that will help you tap into your inner strength, allowing you to let go of the judgments that you place upon yourself.

-Learn the art of deep breathing. It has a way of cleansing your body and mind of any negativity. Take 10 minutes a day to sit quietly and just breathe deeply. As you breathe in and out, say this mantra: "In with tranquility -- out with self-judgment".

-Learn to laugh at yourself. Life is filled with circumstances that are so ironic and funny. So often the things you beat yourself up for are nothing but opportunities for you to laugh at yourself. (These can also make for some great stories later on).

-Don't let the judgment of others poison your view of yourself. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. It's okay if someone does not approve of you or your decisions. As long as you are happy with it, that is all that matters. If someone has a view of you that comes off as being judgmental, it is time to wrap yourself in a protective shield. It can be easy for the thoughts and opinions of others to poison your mind. Be strong and vigilant in looking out for this.