In a world brimming with diverse voices, I often find myself navigating a maze of judgements and opinions—both my own and those of others. I guess you can say “it’s human nature” to have opinions; they help us make sense of the world. But since our Week 5 lesson, I’ve been reflecting on the line where healthy opinions end and snap judgements begin.

It’s easy to judge someone based on a quick look or a single action, filling in the gaps with assumptions. We all do it, almost instinctively. Yet, I realize that rushing to judgement often reveals more about my mindset than the person I’m judging. What insecurities or biases am I projecting? This question has forced me to re-evaluate where those opinions and judgements are coming from that has form some of my cement.

I’m learning that opinions are best when they’re malleable and open to revision as new information comes in. The world is more nuanced than we can fully understand, and people are endlessly complex. Just as I hope to be understood beyond my own surface, I’m working on offering others that same grace.

Recently, I’ve started practicing what I call “empathetic pausing.” Instead of being quick to react, I stop and ask myself, What might I not know about this person’s story? I believe this new small habit which I’m forming will soften my worldview and be more child like to look for the good in people, replacing judgement with curiosity.

I’ve realized that the best opinions are the ones I hold lightly, recognizing that everyone is a work in progress, including me. Living without judgement isn’t realistic, but I can commit to approaching people and situations with empathy and openness. In doing so, I believe life—and relationships—will become richer, more forgiving, and infinitely more fulfilling.