What makes you so sure that you're right? How do you know that your ideas are the best? Sometimes you're so certain that the way you see things is the correct way, that you automatically assume that everyone else is wrong! You try to get your point across, but nothing seems to work: "He (or she) never listens to me, and I feel like I'm hitting my head against a brick wall..."
When this feeling of powerlessness threatens to drive you crazy, put things back into perspective - and keep an open mind. When others don't want to listen to you, it may be time to reflect whether the point you're trying to prove is really valid. How do you know? Is it possible that you're wrong, and that you're being unreasonable, when you demand that others conform to your ideas and expectations? Wrong and right are not always black and white - and there are many shades of grey! Others are entitled to have their opinions, no matter how much you cling to yours.
People are at various stages in their lives. They might not be ready to hear what you have to say, or to accept it. They might have a goal or a purpose which differs from yours. You life might be heading in a certain direction while theirs might is going the opposite way. There is not just one answer to a problem. There might be many answers, and no one can guarantee which one is the best. Life is about trial and error. Acknowledging that others learn from their experiences, just like I do from mine, will help you understand that they are following their own personal path. It's not your job to interfere with their choices...
You can only live your own life to the best of your ability. Sometimes you're so adamant, and stubbornly cling to your point of view, that you don't take time to listen to others. Instead of being attentive and non-judgmental, you're already preparing your response in your head. Before you speak, take into consideration all possible reasons against your position. You can't impose your ideas on others. You can't convince them or force them to believe what you believe. You can't compel them to act a certain way, or to do certain things.
Keeping an open will help you cultivate tolerance, understanding and empathy. It will make your daily life smoother and easier. It will pave the way for effective team work and peaceful cooperation with others.
"Be very very patient and very open-minded, and listen to what people have to say." - A.J. McLean, born 1978, American musician, singer, entertainer, and member of the Backstreet Boys.
With an open mind and with love,
Bella
Painting: "Tiger Lily" by Linda Richter, USA
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