As a legal nurse, this is my new favorite ending to statements.
I recently had a conversation with a parent that said, "I did not raise my kids to be opinionated."
I asked, "Why not?!? You don't want them to have an opinion?"
He answered, "I want my kids to have an educated opinion. I want them to hold strong beliefs but be open. I want them to have passion for their principles but still explore. They should be able to argue both sides."
He's so right. So I had to think, where do I get my opinions? After all, an opinion is really just a view point formed about something not always based on facts. In legal nursing, I base some of my opinions on experiences I had while working in the hospital. There's no authoritative literature to back me up. I lived it, so I feel that I know, in my opinion...
What is the difference between having an educated opinion and being opinionated? The concepts can be confused and the results misleading. Everyone has opinions. Anyone can be educated or experienced. The difference seems to come down to state of mind. Close-minds will fall into the category of opinionated where as the opposite can be said for the open-minded person. The open mind can hear and learn more, while still holding strong to what was already there. They retain their own truth while simultaneously accepting the other person's right to the same. Don't allow someone opinionated to influence your beliefs without making sure the education and experience are there. Presuppose (and insist) to be heard for your opinion as well.
I found an article by Sara Blackwell where she wrote:
"For the open-minded person, personal opinions are placed to the side. The impact of the world for them comes from trying to understand others. They educate themselves towards the thoughts and viewpoints of those around them. Though they might not agree with the 'opposing' viewpoint, they show respect by treating others around them like they are equals. The open-minded seem to embrace understanding. They are not afraid of forward thinking. They wish for understanding. Regardless of viewpoints and political standing, being open-minded results in respecting people as people and nothing less than that."
I'm sure we have all experienced both types of people. Educated or opinionated get confused as being one and the same at times, so we need to pay attention. When we listen to different viewpoints, we are challenged to see things through a different lens. This promotes respect and allows room for consideration.
And this is the foundation of trust.
I have met so many different types of people in my coast to coast travel nursing experience, and right here in the Westlake business community. My leadership style must lead with an open mind because those around me seem to express themselves freely, get super blunt, and just tell it like it is!! Contact me if you want to talk.
In the article, Blackwell went on to conclude:
"Differences are seen as items that ornate and articulate the beauty of the person. As we come together as a group to understand and appreciate one another, our lives are enriched."
I could not agree more. We need to embrace our neighbors and find ways to actually hear each other. I bet you'll find we have more in common than you think! Open your mind to the possibilites.
If you are wondering about Mrytle the Turtle attached to this article, she's just here to listen.
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