So you wanna open up the ol’ noggin? Well if you’re reading this you’re already halfway there. Simply striving to be more open minded is a great place to be. I think one of the most vital qualities a person can possess is an open mind, especially in this era. Maybe you are already open minded and just want to further it or maybe you’re on the brink of being a walking talking steel brick- either way it never hurts to get some insight on building a better you. Before I start I want to say you should have opinions and beliefs and you should stick by them; but there is a fine line between defending what you believe to be true and being a total arse and shutting down others and their ideas. If you’re gonna be a steel brick at least be a respectful one! There are those who are naturally open minded and those who have to put in some effort to be open minded- both are equally admirable. Though I wish there was, there is no step by step guide to being open minded but here are some tips for those who need a little extra help!

Don’t interrupt

When someone is talking don’t interrupt them. Listen to what they have to say even if it sounds ridiculous or totally absurd. Hearing what they are saying is not listening- listening is interactive and comprehensive. Hold up your end if it’s a conversation. If you're rushing them to be done so you can have your chance to talk then you aren't listening. Listen to what they have to say and respond with depth. Don’t disregard their pitch while trying to develop your rebuttal- this isn’t a graded debate so chill and really listen.

Ask Questions

Oh my gosh I can’t even stress how important and helpful asking questions is. Ask as many as you can and ask them every single day. There is no proof anywhere that curiosity killed the cat. Ask why and how. Try to understand the best you can. If you don’t fully understand something, ask. There is nothing worse than intentional ignorance . Get comfortable with being vulnerable enough to ask questions you don’t know the answers to. Helpful hint: nobody has all the answers- except maybe DJ Khaled.

Know your audience/speaker

Who are they? Where do they come from? How were they raised? All questions you should attempt to figure out before passing judgement on them. Try to get to know who they are internally so you can connect it with how it might influence their views and beliefs. But take it with a grain of salt, people are not always their past.

Know Yourself

Who are you? Where do you come from? How were you raised? Let go of everything that is expected of you and create your own views. Think about who you’ve been, who you are and who you want to be and go about life accordingly- bring your open mind with you.

Try Something New

Some cases are less about opening your mind to others and more about having an open mind with yourself. Maybe you're scared to spice things up in the sheets, maybe you're a skeptic on all things supernatural, or maybe you have a hard time trying new foods (if so I think indian/thai food is a great place to start ((naan bread and yellow curry will not disappoint)). Regardless the circumstance- this is your life, you only get one (well maybe) but for now this is the only one you're living. Try new things, believe in something, do something that scares you, *insert that life begins at the end of your comfort zone and follow up eye roll*. Really genuinely consider it, and if it still doesn't interest you then don't fret- the naan will still be there when you're ready.

Disagreements are allowed and welcomed

If you just really aren’t feelin’ something that someone is saying then respectfully agree to disagree. It is totally okay to have different views, we should have different views. Our differences can bring us together just as much as they can tear us apart. Listen to other’s theories, views, beliefs, thoughts, and give them a chance. Regardless of your standpoint you still need to show them love and kindness. So yes, have disagreements! But don’t let it come between you and your bond with someone. Being open minded allows you to grow from others and let others grow from you. Read about all religions, listen to ghost stories, go to a psychic, eat strange food, and promote growth- always.