Stand Behind What You Believe In

Standing Your Ground

There are many people who will disagree with your opinions, views or beliefs. Many of these people are very wise, witty, sophisticated, educated and full of wise words. It sometimes seems like their attempt at persuading you to adopt a different point of view, has an empowering effect over your mind.

But don’t fall for this trap. If you truly believe in something, then stand by what you believe in! You don’t have to enter into any arguments; present your case in a mature, calm and effective manner. Actually, the best arguments are presented in a cool and collective manner.

The reason you don’t want to fall into their trap is because it takes away from your ability to come up with your own conclusions. This is called manipulation: the act of changing your opinions, beliefs or behaviors based on what someone else is saying or doing to you. Don’t fall for manipulation.

Now on the other hand, someone may disagree with your opinions or beliefs in a way that is not manipulative. Everyone has the right to believe in what they want! But be careful here: you don’t want to believe in what they say just because they present their argument more impressively than yours.

Don’t fall for the glamour. After an impressive argument is presented, if you still believe that yours is more valid, then by all means, stick by your argument. Sometimes, certain people have a wonderful way of presenting an argument that makes you question yours. Don’t fall for this trap either.

But there are many cases in which someone else’s argument makes more sense than yours! If this is the case, then take a step back to consider their argument and go from there. But what you don’t want to do is to ignore their argument out of stubbornness, pride or ego.

When you ignore someone else’s argument that is more valid than yours, you are doing yourself a disservice. You are allowing your ego to get in the way. Whenever your ego gets in the way, relationships start to get sour. Never be too proud to admit a better point brought up by another person!

Stand by your beliefs but be flexible and open to change!

Are you Ready? (This is Defeating Stigma Mindfully)