Be Open-Minded To Engage In Productive Conversations

It’s difficult to have open and productive conversations nowadays because we are living in a highly polarized society of groups with contrasting opinions and beliefs. 

Discussions are erupting everywhere about controversial topics such as politics, religion, vaccines and protests. 

However, when encountering people with different opinions, people refuse to listen.

Certainly, the proliferation of fake news and misinformation increases the division.

You can see it on social media, TV or even in person. It’s as if we have become less tolerant when someone confronts us with information that contradicts our perspective. 

You’ve probably heard someone say that you should never discuss religion or politics with others. I disagree. 

It’s not about the topics themselves, but rather about the attitude we have when we communicate those topics.

Have we lost the fine art of thoughtful dialogue? Why do conversations have to end up as frustrating arguments where relationships are broken?

Communicating with those that have beliefs that contradict ours will allow us to grow and learn. But to do so, we need to be open-minded. 

One of the most important skills for engaging in a productive conversation is active listening, instead of having one-way conversations that can lead to misunderstandings.

Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and ask yourself: what are their reasons for thinking this way? What could I learn from this?

It doesn’t matter if you don’t agree with them, you don’t have to. Simply attempt to understand their point of view.

Stop looking at your phone when someone is talking to you. Not only is it rude but it also makes it harder to actively listen.

Don’t assume everyone shares your opinions about controversial topics or public figures. 

I remember a friend once started a conversation about politics by saying “Trump is a real joke,” without realizing others might like him.

Instead, she should’ve started the conversation by asking “what do you think about Trump?” or “have you seen his press conference?” That way she would’ve avoided possibly offending someone.  

Avoid using “why” and “how” when asking questions because it can make others feel attacked. 

Focus and debate on the topic, but don’t attack people. Putting people down doesn’t make you a winner, much less someone that others want to speak with. 

So remember that productive conversations aren’t to prove you are right.

Respect other people’s opinions and find a common ground.