For some, being open-minded is easy. But for others, it's a challenge and something they must make a continual effort to obtain. Most people struggle with this concept. But making the effort to think openly and embrace new ideas is the key to any successful relationship.
The following are some simple tactics you can use and adapt to in order to become more open-minded. Follow them carefully, and you'll achieve unprecedented success.
Understanding the other person's perspective
The key to successful relationships depends on your ability to see things from the perspective of the other person. Understanding another's perspective is the important skill of being able to look at things from a point of view other than our own. It brings a mind full of compassion and empathy to our relationships.
Don't be afraid to ask for advice
Sometimes you're too close to a problem to figure out a solution by yourself. Reach out to a friend for advice. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. In fact, getting advice from friends, peers and people from your personal network that you trust and respect gives you the opportunity to see the situation from new eyes. Even if you don't use their advice, you will be able to look at the issue in a different way, and that might be all you need.
Communicate effectively and directly
Most people speak indirectly, which requires us to read through the lines if we want to understand the actual meaning of what they are trying to say. This creates a lot of misinterpretation -- especially during arguments. If you have a problem with your partner or don't understand what they are talking about, it's important to create a dialogue to gain clarification. Talk about everything, even if it hurts. Once communication is clear, trust and faithfulness are gained.
Show more interest in listening than speaking
If you want to get to know others, show more interest in listening than speaking. It lets them know you care, and they'll be more receptive to the conversation. There are a few ways of doing this:
- Repeat what's been talked about to clarify what you think the other person said before you give your opinion -- you could have heard wrong
- Remember what's been discussed and bring it up later in the conversation to reinforce the fact that you were listening
- Ask open-ended questions, because sometimes the other person doesn't know how to broach the topic or say what they want to say
- Just listen, because if you show no interest in learning your partner's thoughts and opinions, you also show that you're not interested in them
Respect and trust your partner
Respecting each other is essential to a successful and long-lasting relationship. If you're disrespectful to your partner, you can't form a strong bond with them. There will always be a wedge. Remain open-minded and be considerate of what your partner believes when relating to them. Appreciate that they have different hobbies, interests and perspectives from you.
If you have any complaint about your partner, you should be having that conversation with them -- not with your friends. It makes your communication complicated, but it allows you to grow in the process.
Other than respect, trust is one of the tops traits necessary for a healthy relationship. The biggest issues couples face are jealousy and infidelity. Trust your partner to go off on their own, and don't get insecure or angry if you see them talking to someone else.
Expand your circle of friends
If you're always with the same social circle, it's likely you will start to adopt each other's opinions and thought patterns. If you want to open your mind enough, it's a good idea to expand your circle of friends and converse with people who have different views. You'll learn a lot.
Avoid judgments and speculation
Avoid judgments and speculation if you want to be more open-minded. It's easy to judge and make assumptions when you're the one looking in from the outside. Rather than blindly believing what someone else says, find out for yourself. This could be as simple as trying a new food or activity.
When you have a positive attitude about experiencing new things, you can open yourself up to new discoveries every day. It's a great way to keep your life fun and exciting!