More often than not, parents influence their children's beliefs because they want what's best for their children. They pass on their own ideas of "right" and "wrong", especially in regards to politics. If this is your experience, you may be aware of your parents' positions on multiple contemporary issues. You may have been encouraged to take your parents' world-views as fact, especially their moral values – but morality is always subjective.

There are many reasons to believe in something. Sometimes, our emotions drive our convictions. Sometimes, it is our knowledge and real-life experiences. Sometimes, we feel obligated to follow our parents' beliefs: love, respect, and even desire for approval are all deciding factors when they apply. Even societal expectations about how we should regard family members play a part in constructing our moral compass; we've all heard the phrase "respect your elders." These notions compel us to continue believing what we observed growing up – however, at a certain point in time, you should examine these principles.

One of the most important things we can do in life is ask questions. Examine what you believe from every possible angle. Think about every opposing and supporting point of view. Do your research. When you know what the other side believes, you are better able to defend your position. Every belief that you hold dear to your heart should be based on something credible.

I come across many people in college who are finally able to explore ideas different from those that they are exposed to at home, but they don't take the opportunity to do so. This can leave you close-minded and ignorant to viewpoints that you may have found beneficial had you sought them out. Being away from home provides an excellent space to take a look at different belief systems and ways of thinking. It allows you to have conversations with people of differing backgrounds and experiences, as well as people who disagree with you. Those conversations are often the most important.

Beliefs are malleable. Your values will grow and change over time. However that happens, you should be able to think critically about the ideas that play a significant role in shaping your life.