Digital Library: Open mindedness

Open mindedness

Having an open mind means being able to consider new ideas and different opinions or points of view, being willing to listen to the proposals of others, even if they go against our principles, evaluating these proposals and deciding whether to accept them with flexibility and ability to change our mind.

People who do not have an open mind are not very flexible or not at all, they are too frightened by the possibility of a change, they fear what they do not know. They are unable to change their minds and accept that of others. Open-minded people have a better chance of reaching their maximum potential in life and also in work because they know how to take risks, they know how to dare, they are not satisfied with the easier option. These people are constantly looking for something, are nonconformists in the positive sense of the term and are willing to learn anything from anyone. Having an open mind allows for positive change and also allows for greater team spirit given the ability to listen to other people's ideas and opinions.

To have an open mind, you need to test yourself, your ideas and your behaviour, stepping out of your “comfort zone.” You need to question your ideas by not being afraid of making mistakes, but by accepting the risks. An open mind also allows you to find inspiration in others. Open-mindedness is linked to humility: in fact, those who believe they know everything will never be able to learn something from others and will not be able to reinvent themselves or question their own ideas or principles. However, being open-minded also means approaching one's neighbour without necessarily losing one's principles or one's moral integrity, but being open to dialogue and confrontation.

Significance in Times of Crisis (e.g. pandemic)

In times of crisis, which also means great changes, being open-minded is essential in order not to be afraid of new things and to accept to change habitual ideas and behaviors to face the new context.