We live in a world that so many people seem to think is black and white; specifically, where many think that they are always right and anyone who thinks differently is always wrong. There are several negatives to this mindset, but rather than focus on the negative, I'd rather just focus on why having an open mind is better:
1. More friends!
If you're open-minded, you can get along with lots more people and make friends with all sorts of different people, and you can spend your time getting to know them rather than being put off by the fact that they might think differently than you. And who doesn't want more friends?
2. You learn more!
Being open-minded is a great way to learn more about things you aren't familiar with, rather than just shutting out ideas you think are wrong.
3. Less stress!
If you're not constantly worried about what other people are doing because you think it's wrong, you won't be as stressed out worrying about other people's lives!
4. Less pointless arguments!
With an open mind, you're not going to waste your time, energy, and sanity trying to win arguments that don't matter. If you have an open mind, you'll be more accepting of others around you and won't be bothered by people who live differently than you do, and you won't feel the need to get into arguments. Bonus: if you do get into a disagreement, you're more likely to find common ground if you're open minded rather than just sticking to thinking that you're 100% right and they are 100% wrong.
5. More important stuff will get done!
When you open your mind to the idea that others might have a better solution to a problem, you can join forces and make a difference! Not only this, but you'll spend way less time and headache focusing on differences or being stubborn and thinking your way is the only way, and all that extra time can be put toward doing something good!
6. More happiness all around!
People who are open-minded are often much happier than people who aren't because they're not constantly trying to convince other people that they're doing things the wrong way. There's more than just one way to live your life, what is best for you isn't what's best for everyone else, because everyone is different.
