When Our Opinions Are Different

Sue Relihan
Sep 6, 2018 · 2 min read

This seems like the perfect time to discuss what happens when people we know, like and trust have very opposite opinions from us and/or from one another.

Each one of us have our own unique way we see the world. We grow up in different environments, are individually affected by a unique range of experience and influences. These preferences, values, and beliefs we embrace are frequently related to the early years of our lives.

Consequently, each of us has developed a perspective that is uniquely ours. Interacting peacefully and constructively with people from all walks of life is a matter of first understanding where they are coming from. Then we can adjust our expectations so that we avoid making inaccurate assumptions about why they differ from us/others.

In the face of emerging interpersonal conflict, it is easy to judge that others are being difficult, unreasonable, or stubborn. We can grow frustrated when someone in our environment does not share our opinions.

Sometimes we even expect our friends to unquestioning support us in our actions.

However, it is likely that they may simply possess differing notions with regard to what is and what is not appropriate and/or important in this life.

We always have the choice to ease the tension by reaffirming our belief in the fundamental right of all beings to determine their own values/beliefs.

To promote a harmonious relationship, we need to do our best to relate to the unique experiences they have had. When we take the time and effort to discover what makes them tick, we increase our ability to find a peaceful way to interact that is mutually satisfying for everyone.

Perhaps we discover that in addition to the differences in perspective, these seemingly confident people are subject to insecurities and other personal issues that influence their way of seeing the world. It is possible we will never fully grasp the myriad complexities they embody. Yet we can still be compassionate.

Mutual respect in the face of disagreement is one of the highest forms of maturity between people. It’s up to us to make sure we’re doing our part as much as possible.

If you’d like to discuss this or explore any of your values, emotions, and/or feelings, you are welcome to email me at info@SueRelihan.com to set up a free 30 minute conversation or visit my website: www.SueRelihanCares.com.

Sue Relihan

Written by

Metamorphosis Mentor and Best-selling Author of Metamorphosis - One Woman's Journey to Serenity & Empowerment.

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