The advent of technology has made the globe feel like a much smaller place than it actually is. Today, we are becoming increasingly aware of different cultures, opinions and beliefs through news and social media. Navigating this can sometimes be challenging, so embracing tolerance is essential for our personal growth and mental wellbeing while we are a part of a global community.
For starters, being open to differences helps us develop a deeper understanding of others. When we practise tolerance, we improve our relationships with those around us and cultivate a growth mindset. This openness can also reduce the stress and anxiety we might feel from exposure to differences.
Dr Robin Henderson, an American expert in behavioural health, recently said in an interview, “Feeling that we have to ‘endure’ someone because their views differ from our own takes a toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing… Accepting and even celebrating the differences we all have is energising and promotes positive mental and emotional wellbeing for everyone.” Here, Henderson highlights the importance of tolerance and talks about how accepting others and their diverse thoughts not only reduces the stress associated with differing opinions but also improves our interactions. Tolerance helps create a more supportive environment for all.
The International Day for Tolerance is observed annually on November 16th and it aims to promote the importance of tolerance, understanding and respect among individuals and communities. Established by the UNESCO in 1995, the International Day for Tolerance has the noble goal of creating a more harmonious world.
On this day, join us as we understand the many ways in which embracing tolerance can help us have a growth mindset as well as enhance our mental wellbeing.
Enhances personal growth
Being tolerant to others’ way of living and beliefs encourages us to open our horizons and not limit ourselves to a single way of thinking. When we expose ourselves to diverse opinions, we cultivate a growth mindset by broadening our thoughts. We become open to learning from others, even when their views challenge our own. And being open to new ideas in this manner can lead to various opportunities for our own development. Accepting others’ belief systems makes us stronger and more understanding as individuals.
Leads to positive communication
When we approach conversations with different people with an open mind, we are more likely to communicate positively. Tolerance encourages us to be open and respectful. This kind of communication also creates healthy relationships and minimises misunderstandings. By practising tolerance in our thoughts and words, we learn to express them better, while also listening to others more effectively.
Positive communication leads to fewer conflicts and a more harmonious environment where growth mindset thrives and contributes to one’s better mental health.
Promotes empathy and understanding
Many of us can be quick to judge and dismiss people, often overlooking the struggles and challenges they might have dealt with. By practising tolerance and empathy, we learn to look beyond and understand their experiences. The path of tolerance encourages us to step into someone else’s shoes, allows us to understand the challenges others face, leading to deeper connections. When we are empathetic, we create an environment where people feel heard and valued. This sense of belonging boosts our own mental health by reducing feelings of isolation or loneliness.
Reduces stress and anxiety
When we move to a new city or join a new college, we are often exposed to people who have different opinions and ideas when compared to ours. Having interactions with such a varied set of people can be exciting, but it can also bring about stress and anxiety. When we come across opinions that differ from our own by a huge margin, it can overwhelm us. As a result, we may feel pressured to defend our views or fight their views.
However, practising tolerance can help us navigate these situations smoothly. By learning to accept that not everyone will think or feel the same way we do, we can reduce the pressure felt while also cultivating a growth mindset simultaneously. Letting go of the need to control others’ opinions or defend one’s own allows a more peaceful mental space to thrive. It also helps us to focus on how to grow and improve our overall wellbeing instead of simmering in disagreements.
Builds community and connection
Often, we come to a point where we feel forced to cut ourselves off from certain people because of a difference in opinions. It might sound odd but is, in fact, a harsh reality that we encounter from time to time. However, it is only when we embrace tolerance that we can skip this situation and create a stronger sense of community instead. When we accept and celebrate our differences, we build stronger connections with those around us. This sense of belonging can improve our mental wellbeing by providing a support system to us during tough times. When we come together despite our differences, we create a space where everyone can grow.
So, embracing diversity and tolerance is not just about accepting differences and progressing, it’s also about enhancing our mental wellbeing and cultivating a growth mindset. In an ever-changing world, being tolerant of each other is of the truest essence. In fact, it is a necessity for thriving.
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