Your opinion defines who you are as well as how you interpret the world. Being able to form your own opinion is both a weapon and tool to help you make a difference. Rather than reusing and recycling the sentiments of your peers and elders, determine what it is that you really feel about a topic and take a stance on what matters most. On topics both big and small, form an opinion following these steps.
Read more, and listen.
The easiest way to develop your own opinion is to become a receptacle of knowledge by reading from many sources to develop your own assessment of a situation. Refrain from becoming too absorbed in a single point of view, as the difference of sentiment is a universal truth. Without knowledge of the different facets of a topic, how could one possibly choose a single opinion? Only by becoming well-informed is it then possible to create an opinion worth standing for.
Understand bias.
Writing is hardly ever without bias. Everyone has their own reasoning and motivation for what they say and write; their content is shaped by forces and factors unknown to us. Having at least a basic understanding of the author of a piece of writing or a speech can help determine their motivation and/or agenda in their creation. What point are they trying to make, and how would their outlook impact your own opinion? By not falling into the bias of others, you stand a chance at developing an unclouded opinion on your own.
Evaluate evidence.
Without evidence, you cannot form an opinion. Baseless assumptions are not valid opinions nowadays. It’s of utmost importance to analyze others’ opinions for valid data. It’s also extremely helpful to find contradicting evidence, perhaps leading to a change of your opinion to accommodate these new issues. If you find opinions that aren’t backed up by solid fact, it may be safe to dismiss them in favor of ideas supported by fact rather than fiction.
Determine the bigger picture.
Strike a fine balance between generalizing issues and going too deeply into specifics. When delving into data, remember that you want an opinion that’s concise, specific, and arguable. You have to make sure to keep it in context, or else risk losing sight of the bigger picture. Whether you’re discussing politics, religion or any other contentious topic, stay within the bounds of reason and reinforce your opinion with facts.
(Don’t) go with the flow.
Just because everyone else you know shares the same opinion, think about it. Determine where they have gotten their information that led to such a position. You may feel unnecessarily pressured by the power of the majority rule, but taking the time to do your own research can lead you to your own conclusions.
The power of an opinion is the strength to stand by your own idea. Being able to argue a point, justify a stance using applicable data, and show the majority what you really think is an important tool to distance yourself from the mainstream opinions of the masses. Learn what really matters and the facts to back yourself up.
