You may believe you have heard all the opinions on a particular topic and have made up your mind. These opinions may be classified anywhere between true and false, logical and illogical, based on fact or fallacy, on emotion or reason, on myth or proven history. At times, we have to make up our mind, make decisions, and get on with life.
If we completely close our mind, however, and refuse to investigate other opinions, we may be to a disadvantage. Our narrow perspective may make it more difficult to understand other people. An open mind is better suited to learning, seeing a broader picture, and more clearly defining our own opinions.
No one has really heard it all. New arguments come up every day. We may get to the point of exhaustion and don't want to hear one more word on the topic. We may not recognize our own prejudices and biases. We may fear doubting or changing our thinking. After all, feeling strong in our own convictions helps form our identity.
Remember that just because you have strong opinions doesn't make you right, nor should you insist on winning your arguments. You may present your reasons but also keep listening to other ideas.
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