Unapologetically Opinionated: the Science Behind Our Fiercest Views

This week on Inclusionomics? Podcast, Stacey Gordon and Lisa Gates get into the brain science behind our beliefs and opinions, and why they’re so hard to change. Most of us are unapologetically opinionated, yet we often conflate beliefs with the TRUTH. In this episode, you’ll discover what happens when our beliefs and opinions are threatened, why it feels uncomfortable, and how we can be better communicators and leaders who actively include diverse viewpoints.

How opinions work and how to talk about them

We all have strong beliefs and opinions, and it’s inevitable that there will be people who disagree — in our families, workplaces, and the world at large. When that happens, it’s tempting to try to convince other people that you’re right, and they’re wrong. Spoiler alert: It never works.

To communicate effectively in the crossfire of differing opinions, Lisa shares a powerful tenet from mediation and diversity and inclusion practices: acknowledgement — making it a habit to deeply listen, without judgment, to others’ opinions is the first step toward building trust and leadership.

Do you know how to step away?

Part of being such a leader and communicator is knowing when to step away. Have you ever argued with your partner, and 24 hours later apologized and acknowledged their perspective? Stacey shares the story of arguing with her daughter over feelings about an accepted fact, and what Stacey learned about stepping away from that disagreement.

The truth is that human beings are pretty pliable when we feel safe, heard, and seen. Lisa shares a tool and insights from Crucial Conversations to help you mediate your knee-jerk reaction to opinionated conflict.

The humbling truth

Research from the American Psychological Association revealed that opinions not based on facts are more common than we think — in fact, we all have them. It’s not a matter of “stupid people vs intelligent people” but a human condition. And, we all fall prey to confirmation bias and the availability heuristic. Listen to the episode to hear Stacey and Lisa’s advice for how to take responsibility for fact-checking your opinions.

How to manage different opinions in the workplace

To thrive and be effective in our world, it’s critical that we polish the tools that help us better understand and respect each other. A fundamental tool is patience, followed by clear communication. It’s critical, whether you’re a manager or team member or company leader, to make listening and discussion a priority. Stacey and Lisa share practical tips for how you can work both into your meetings, and how to communicate about them with relationship-saving clarity.

Have a listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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