Want to learn how to become more open-minded when it comes to your business? Well you’re already part way there by acknowledging that things need to change wanting to take purposeful action in order to do so!
When the pandemic hit people were forced to accept the idea of working from home. Before then, the majority of business owners refused to accept it as a legitimate option. Now we see more and more studies showing how much more productive people are at home and how more businesses are now offering this as a ‘perk’ to employees.
Why do we greet new ideas with the “that won’t work” mentality?
Picture being introduced to someone you’ve never met. You quickly form an opinion based on your first impression of the other person. Would you tell them all the negative thoughts running through your mind??
No, you keep your opinions to yourself until you actually get to know them. You can do the same when you are presented with new ideas, and this is how you can prevent negativity from keeping you from pursuing a good idea.
Acknowledge Your Biases
Biases affect how we interpret information and can cause judgment or stereotypes. Becoming more aware of our own biases is the first step to challenging them and becoming open to new ideas.
See It From The Other Side
Imagine the perspective of someone on the other side. Think of three reasons someone might have an opposing view. Being able to imagine someone else’s perspective, even if it doesn’t change your mind, helps you become more open-minded when presented with new ideas/concepts.
Ask Lots of Questions
People who are open-minded tend to ask questions more than offering their own opinions. Look to learn instead of immediately saying no.
Make Friends
Connecting with people who have a variety of perspectives on life is a great way to become more open-minded. Seek relationships with people you may not normally interact with . For example, you could invite a coworker to lunch because you’ve never spent time with them outside of work before. Even if you have very little in common with this person, take the opportunity to learn more about their interests and personality.
Take in Different Types of Media
Reading books, watching movies, listening to podcasts or experiencing other types of media and art can all help us imagine or sympathize with different viewpoints.
Look for media and art created by or about people who differ from you.
Join a New Group
Try out a new group to meet new people and experience new things you never have before. Getting to know all different kinds of people will help you gain new perspectives and experiences.
Get Rid of the Negative Thoughts
People who are open-minded are typically more realistic and optimistic.Try to be aware of your negative thoughts. See if you can alter that negative thought and take a more neutral approach to a situation.
Acknowledge Your Limitations
Admitting when you are wrong can be challenging, but the ability to acknowledge your mistakes can help you become more open-minded. It will help you figure out how to learn from the experience and do better in the future.
Now you may be wondering how you can maintain your new positive outlook and also not get bogged down by too many ideas. This is a completely valid concern, which is why we have another blog for you on how to deal with too many ideas at once, and how you can figure out which one are the most beneficial and productive for your business to pursue. This doesn’t mean that you won’t use the ideas in the future, but it sets realistic goals on what you and your team can achieve.
This takes some time to get nailed down, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you turn toward a more negative worldview. It happens, especially when you are tired and overwhelmed (which most small business owners are)! Take it one day at a time, practice mindfulness, and we can guarantee that you will see a shift in both your moods and thinking!