Your Strongest Beliefs May Not Be True!
We inhabit a world where a belief’s strength frequently serves as an indicator of its validity. Our ability to hold a conviction with such firmness has made us forget that our opinions may not necessarily reflect reality, especially when it comes to politics, religion, or our views on ourselves and others. Such behaviour results in an inability to consider alternative viewpoints or listen to individuals with opposing thoughts.
This phenomenon has worsened with the advent of the internet, which enables people to propagate their beliefs to a broader audience. While this technology can facilitate the sharing of information, it also permits the spread of incorrect ideas. These beliefs can become so firmly entrenched in our minds that we fail to question their validity or even entertain alternative possibilities.
Holding false beliefs can result in minor inconveniences or more severe consequences, depending on the situation and context. At its worst, it has led to cancel culture, hate speech, and physical violence against people who hold beliefs that differ from those of others. We have even witnessed people losing their jobs based on views that someone found offensive. In many such instances, no attempt is made to verify whether the beliefs held are valid, or whether the perception of another person’s thoughts is accurate.
Individually, our convictions about ourselves and others can lead to self-defeating behaviour and a lack of empathy. This can make it challenging to form meaningful relationships, connect with others, or even make a positive impact on people’s lives. Consequently, our rigid beliefs can isolate us and close our minds to new ways of viewing the world.
So, what can we do to combat this problem? How do we ensure that our convictions reflect reality and are not simply a result of assuming our beliefs to be true because they feel right? Here are a few recommendations.
Firstly, remain open to new ideas and perspectives. While everyone has their own beliefs, it is vital to recognise that these are not the only views on any given subject. It can be helpful to listen to individuals with varying perspectives or challenge our beliefs by asking questions and seeking out information from multiple sources. Objectively consider others’ views instead of dismissing them because they do not align with ours.
Secondly, question everything! Even if we have strong convictions, it is essential to ask questions and challenge our beliefs. Do not take anything for granted, even if it feels like the truth. Be willing to research a topic or read up on different perspectives to ensure we do not blindly accept something without evidence or proof.
Thirdly, avoid jumping to conclusions too quickly. It is easy to get caught up in our thoughts and feelings on certain topics, but we must consider other potential explanations before forming a conclusion. Consider all the facts and evidence before making judgments or decisions based on our emotions.
Lastly, do not be afraid to have challenging conversations with people who hold different beliefs. Engaging in such discussions can be intimidating, but they can also help us learn more about ourselves and others while facilitating personal growth.
We must acknowledge that our most firmly held beliefs may not be entirely accurate, and we should remain open to the possibility that we could be wrong. By embracing new perspectives, questioning our beliefs, and having difficult conversations, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of the world around us.
