Overall, I consider myself to be an open-minded person. I am willing to give people the benefit of the doubt and listen to what they have to say if it does not go against my values and convictions.
Recently, I faced a situation where I realized I prejudged someone, and I did not give them the benefit of the doubt or a chance to hear them out completely. I allowed both my ego and pride to get in the way of realizing what they wanted to share could benefit me and my wellbeing in the long run.
Many of us allow past experiences or even something someone else experienced to get in the way of where we are today and what could be best for us during the current season we are living. When I realized what I had done, I circled back with the individual and told them I was sorry and that I wanted to hear what they had to say.
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Being open-minded to new ideas means being receptive and willing to consider perspectives, concepts, or viewpoints that may differ from your own. It involves a willingness to explore alternative thoughts, or solutions without immediately dismissing them.
Open-minded individuals are curious, tolerant, and willing to engage in thoughtful discussion or exploration of unfamiliar concepts. They recognize there is value in diversity of thought and understand that being open to new ideas can lead to personal growth, expanded knowledge, and innovative solutions to challenges.
Once I apologized to the individual and really listened to what they had to say, I realized they were offering me a solution to a question I was asking myself repeatedly. We must learn not to let our pride, ego, or even what we think others will say block us from the blessings God is putting in our path.
It is very easy to be and stay comfortable in our own little worlds because it is familiar. Sometimes we even let fear creep in when we do not understand something or if it is a new concept. The truth of the matter is all of us are constantly being faced with new things that we must adjust to during our daily living.
For example, before the pandemic, many of us were not familiar with using Zoom, but now most of us use it during the week to handle business meetings and sometimes even just to keep in touch with people we do not get to see on a regular basis. Usually, when we shy away from something or close off our options, it is because we are not familiar with it, or we have heard someone else say something negative, or because we are just afraid to try something new. It is important to attack life with an open mind.
Think about what opportunities you may have lost because you were not willing to open your mind to new opportunities or doing something differently than what you are familiar with. Many of us say we want new things to happen for us, but we are blinded by the lens we allow our eyes to look through. We may have tunnel vision. Once I dropped my pride, ego, and prejudgment about exploring a new situation it is amazing what I can now see, enjoy, and share with others.
Much of what we think, say, or do, is based on the people we allow to sow into our lives or speak into our ears. This is why it is very important that we are careful who we hang out with, listen to, or follow.
As we all continue this journey called life, yes, it is important that we are careful with what we allow ourselves to get involved with, but I would encourage you to keep your mind open to the world of possibilities that are out there for all of us.
You never know when someone may introduce you to the right partner you have been looking for, the right job you desire, or even just a lifestyle you have been longing for. Just stay true to your core values and convictions to keep on the right path that works for you
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
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