Quick to Judge, Slow to Appreciate
Have you ever noticed how quickly we judge someone’s ideas these days? As soon as someone expresses a thought different from ours, we often rush to dismiss it. It feels like we have forgotten how to genuinely listen and appreciate someone discovering a new viewpoint or idea.
Think back to your last conversation when someone expressed an idea different from yours. Maybe your first instinct was to explain why your way was better. I have done that too. But when we rush to judge, we miss the chance to understand a different perspective fully.
Learning Through Different Perspectives
Growing up, my life was shaped by contrasting influences that deeply impacted how I viewed the world. My earliest years were spent without a father, and my mother grappled with emotional pain and personal hardships. When my stepfather entered our lives, it brought new struggles and complicated emotions. He taught me valuable lessons about hard work, perseverance, and a tough, resilient mindset often described as a “man’s man” mentality. Yet, these lessons came with emotional distance and an old fashion mindset about discipline.
Fortunately, I had the loving presence of my grandparents – especially my grandfather, uncles, and aunts who offered a different perspective on life. They showed me that strength also means embracing love, compassion, and emotional honesty. Their influence balanced out the harsher lessons at a crucial time in my life. Without their guidance, my path might would have been darkened by anger and bitterness. Instead, their gentle examples reminded me that there are always other ways to see the world, especially when it comes to letting go of anger, and discovering fun even when you have so little.
Celebrating Courage and Exploration
When someone steps outside their comfort zone to explore new ideas or beliefs, we should celebrate them, not criticize or dismiss them. It takes bravery to openly share thoughts, even if they are not fully formed or might eventually prove incorrect. The important thing is that they tried and had the courage to speak up.
If we constantly shut people down, we discourage others from being curious or questioning their surroundings. Imagine how much more we could learn if everyone felt safe to explore and share their thoughts openly without judgment.
My Journey to Openness
I personally discovered the greatest insights by allowing myself to explore new thoughts without worrying about others’ opinions. Being open has helped me grow as a developer, marketer, and person. It is amazing what happens when you permit yourself to think deeply and share those thoughts with others.
Creating open spaces where people feel safe to express their ideas is essential. Rather than immediately thinking someone else’s ideas are incorrect, we should feel excited when someone shares their discoveries. Curiosity and openness should replace immediate judgment.
Becoming Better Listeners
What can we do to foster a more accepting environment? We can start by being patient listeners. When someone shares an idea, even if it seems unusual or incomplete, asking questions rather than immediately criticizing can help both sides understand better. Asking questions shows respect and helps people develop their ideas clearly.
We also need to encourage deep thinking. In today’s fast-paced world, we rarely pause to deeply reflect on our beliefs. Slowing down allows us to better understand ourselves and makes it easier to have meaningful conversations with others.
Stay Curious, Stay Open
Finally, we should stay curious. Different viewpoints offer daily lessons. Instead of focusing on who is right or wrong, let us focus on what we can learn from each other. The next time someone shares an idea different from yours, pause and remind yourself of their courage to explore and express themselves.
Every great idea started as uncertain or unusual. Every idea, no matter how small or different it may seem, deserves respect and appreciation. Let us create environments where people feel excited to discover and share their thoughts.
When we appreciate others for their discoveries, we all grow together.
