“An open mind leaves a chance for someone to drop a worthwhile thought in it” – Anonymous

Having an open mind means being open to opinions that are different than yours, remaining flexible and open to new experiences and ways of doing things. Now more than ever the world is continually changing. If we limit ourselves only to what we’ve always known and are comfortable with, we will become more and more frustrated as the world continues to change around us. Resist change and you’ll find life less rewarding and fulfilling not to mention totally boring!

On the other hand, if we look for new and better ways of doing things, we increase our capacity for thinking and creativity, expand our horizons and find life to be more exciting. Being open minded will also help you be a better problem-solver, when you are open to more options you are bound to get better solutions.  Without this kind of critical thinking you wouldn’t have the internet, you’d still be developing your pictures on film, and (gasp!) you wouldn’t even have your cell phone!  Where would you be then…huh?

Consider the benefits of being open minded…You could

Let go of control – When you open your mind, you free yourself from having to be in complete control of your thoughts and allow yourself to experience new ideas and thoughts…how freeing!

Experience changes – Being open minded allows you the chance to change the way you think and view the world. It doesn’t mean you will change; it just opens up the option.

Make yourself stronger – With an open mind, you can learn about new things, adding onto your base of knowledge. Everything you experience adds up strengthening who you are and what you believe in.

Gain confidence – Having an open mind gives you a strong sense of self. You are not defined by the limiting beliefs of yourself or others. As you learn more about the world around you your confidence will naturally grow.

Fun facts about open minded people:

• They are generally more accepting of others and have fewer prejudices.
• They tend to be more optimistic and make the most of life
• Have less stress because they are more open to change
• Want to learn more and are typically considered to be more interesting