Navigating Uncertainty for Personal Growth and Compassion: The Value of Open-Mindedness

Receptivity, or open-mindedness, is a valuable trait that requires more cognitive effort than dogmatism. Being open-minded means welcoming uncertainty and information that may not align with our beliefs, which can be challenging for our brains. Our brains crave certainty and routine, and the more ambiguity or uncertainty there is, the more the brain's amygdala, which processes fearful and threatening stimuli, is activated. However, being open to uncertainty is an opportunity for personal growth, compassion, and the extinguishing of judgment, hatred, and ignorance.

There are several ways to become more receptive, such as removing distractions, training in uncertainty, seeking out credible opposing views, and meditating in open awareness. Removing distractions allows us to focus on our personal growth journey, while training in uncertainty means pushing into discomfort and observing the urge to avoid something and choosing to do it anyway. Seeking out credible opposing views can help combat confirmation bias and expose us to different perspectives, while meditating in open awareness allows us to remain aware of everything without judgment.

In conclusion, receptivity or open-mindedness is a valuable trait that requires more cognitive effort than dogmatism but is essential for personal growth, compassion, and the extinguishing of judgment, hatred, and ignorance. By removing distractions, training in uncertainty, seeking out credible opposing views, and meditating in open awareness, we can begin our journey to becoming more receptive.