If You Want to Be Steady, Filter the Outside World by the Straightener of Your Judgment
“If You Want to Be Steady, Filter the Outside World by the Straightener of Your Judgment.” I first read this in the book, The Daily Stoic, and it has stuck with me ever since. I even wrote it down in my journal!
But let’s be real...life comes at us fast. From breaking news to unsolicited opinions, social media debates to family expectations, life can often feel like one big whirlwind of noise. Everyone has something to say about who you should be, what you should do, and how you should feel. And if you let it all in unfiltered, you’ll be left feeling lost.
What if I told you that you don’t have to take in everything at face value? What if you could act as a gatekeeper, allowing in only what serves you while filtering out the rest? This is where the straightener of your judgment comes in—your ability to discern, question, and make sense of the world on your own terms.
The Chaos of an Unfiltered Life
Imagine your mind as a house with all the doors and windows wide open. The wind swooshes in, knocking over furniture, scattering papers, and making it impossible to find peace. Every opinion, expectation, and distraction become a surprise guest who barges in uninvited. And soon, you don’t even know which thoughts are yours anymore.
Now, let’s flip this whole idea on its head. Imagine having a powerful filtration system at the entrance of your house. This is your judgment. Instead of letting in every gust of wind, you pause and assess: Does this thought align with my values? Is this belief actually mine, or did I get it from someone else? Does this expectation make sense for this season in my life? With this process in place, you begin to steady yourself. The world doesn’t shake you as much. You stand up taller and with confidence.
The Power of Personal Judgment
Here’s the truth...your judgment is one of your greatest assets. If you let it, it can help you navigate life with more clarity. But in a world that often tells you to just go with the flow, developing strong judgment requires effort.
Let’s break it down:
Not Everything Deserves Your Energy – The internet is full of opinions, but not every fight is yours. Before engaging, ask yourself: Does this actually impact my life? Is this a discussion worth my time? Often, the answer is no.
Your Values Are Your Compass – When faced with conflicting advice or expectations, your values are the BEST filter. If something doesn’t align with what truly matters to you, it’s okay to toss it aside.
Critical Thinking is a Superpower – Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Just because a well-meaning family member gives you advice doesn’t mean it applies. Question everything, run it through your filter, and think for yourself.
Protect Your Inner Peace – If constantly absorbing negativity, gossip, or unrealistic standards leaves you feeling drained, you need a better filter. Your peace is worth more than fitting in.
Practical Ways to Strengthen Your Filter
Pause Before Reacting – When you hear a strong opinion or expectation, take a moment. Ask yourself: Do I actually agree with this? Is reacting worth my peace? Give yourself some space before taking it on as truth.
Limit the Noise – Be intentional about what you consume. If certain social media accounts, news sources, or even people consistently leave you feeling off, think about setting boundaries.
Strengthen Your Own Voice – Journal, reflect, and clarify what you believe. The stronger your own voice, the easier it is to filter out the unnecessary noise.
Practice Discernment – Not every piece of advice—even from people you love—is meant for you. Take what you need and leave the rest.
The End Goal? Steadiness.
A steady person is not someone who never faces challenges or opinions different from their own. A steady person is someone who knows who they are, what they stand for, and what they will (and won’t) allow into their mental and emotional space.
When you filter the world through the straightener of your judgment, you become the calm in the storm. You’re not easily swayed by external noise because you trust yourself to figure out what truly matters. You stand strong, not because the world is quiet, but because you have mastered the art of filtering wisely.
So, the next time the world comes rushing at you with opinions, expectations, and distractions, remember…you have the power to choose what stays and what goes. Your judgment is your greatest tool. Use it often and wisely.