"In forming an opinion, lay your reason open to all who think they have judgment"

When it comes to forming an opinion, the essence of the advice is this: keep your mind open to a range of perspectives. It’s about letting different voices and viewpoints in, rather than clinging stubbornly to your own preconceived notions. Think of it as opening the windows to let fresh air circulate—it makes the environment healthier.

This idea has been around for ages. It’s a reminder that wisdom comes not just from what we know, but from what we learn from others. By being open to the judgments and insights of those around us, we can refine our thoughts and develop a well-rounded viewpoint.

Let’s rewind to ancient Greece for a second. Imagine Socrates strolling through Athens. He was famous for striking up conversations and asking probing questions. Why? Because he believed that true knowledge came from dialogue and debate. He understood that his own reasoning could be sharpened by considering the judgments of others. This back-and-forth exchange of ideas wasn’t just a method; it was a way of life for him.

Now, picture this in a modern setting. You’re at work, tackling a complex project. Instead of retreating to your desk and hammering out a solution solo, you gather a diverse team. There’s Joe from marketing, who always has a finger on the pulse of customer behavior. There’s Priya from engineering, who thinks in terms of systems and efficiencies. And there’s Sam from finance, who brings a numbers-driven perspective. You lay out the problem and listen—really listen—to their viewpoints. Sure, it takes longer than working alone, but the solution you come up with is richer, more robust, because it’s been shaped by multiple minds.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your everyday life? Start small. Next time you’re locked in a debate—whether it’s about the best way to tackle a work issue or even something as trivial as what movie to watch—pause and listen to the other person’s reasoning. Ask questions. Be curious. You don’t have to agree with them immediately, but let their thoughts marinate in your mind for a bit. You might be surprised by how your own opinion evolves.

Imagine you’re a parent deciding on the best school for your child. You’ve done your research and have a clear favorite. But then, over coffee, a friend mentions their experience with a different school. Instead of dismissing their view, you ask more about it. You chat with other parents, visit both schools again, and gather all the information you can. In the end, your decision—whether it changes or stays the same—is informed by a richer tapestry of insights.

Here’s a quick story. A few years back, I was dead set on a certain career path. I was going to be an architect, no question about it. Then, a mentor suggested I explore urban planning. Initially, I brushed it off. I hadn’t considered it before and, frankly, it sounded less exciting. But he nudged me to at least shadow a professional for a day. That day turned into a week, and I started seeing the bigger picture of how spaces come together. It opened my eyes to a whole new passion. Had I not been open to his judgment, I might have missed out on what truly turned out to be my calling.

Being open to others’ judgments doesn’t mean you lack your own. It means you’re wise enough to value the collective pool of wisdom around you. So next time you’re forming an opinion, let down those walls a bit. You’ll find your reasoning becomes sharper, more nuanced, and ultimately, more profound.