Change in our lives is inevitable and over the last 18 months most lives have changed to some extent if not completely. Everyone has been faced with different challenges both within work life and home life. Throughout the COVID Pandemic people’s opinions have shifted in every direction. Our views, beliefs and thoughts have been challenged on a weekly, if not daily, basis.
While many are eager to return to some sort of ‘normality’ by getting the ball rolling with retuning to work, heading to the gym or out with friends. Others choose to stay home. There are continuous debates on what is right or wrong, but it is important to be mindful that everyone’s opinion differs and what is right for one may not be right for another.
Many individuals are in a different place with their comfort level right now. Everybody has their own thoughts and feelings about what they think is safe and appropriate currently. It is important to know that it is okay to have different opinions. It’s about how we deal with our own thoughts and feelings around these that will make a big difference to us individually and to our mental health. It is important to set healthy boundaries and feel empowered to say “no” if you are not comfortable with things. It is important to feel able to discuss your opinions with others, but also to listen to them as well. Remember to be open minded and respectful of the full spectrum of decisions that others are making, even if you find their behaviour concerning—for example, if a loved one refuses to wear a face covering.
We can all utilise the information that we have and try to help educate others and express the reasons we feel something might be important. In the end, everyone does have to make their own decisions. However, getting to the point where it begins to make you angry, you cannot focus on anything else, or your feelings towards people change it may be a sign to take a step back and try to control any of the feeling you may be having.
All of us are witnessing the loss and devastation that is occurring across the globe and that can certainly surface complicated feelings especially if your own life has largely remained intact, with health, with family, or if you have not experienced a lot of changes with employment.
With all the different views, experiences, thoughts and feeling throughout the pandemic and then the differences on vaccines, restrictions, and the best way forward; it is inevitable that there will be a difference of opinion. Both at home and at work.
Changes and opinions in the workplace might be unpopular with employees/ colleagues. Whether an employee/manager disagree with their colleague/manager, this can create tension in the workplace. Whether it is a disagreement over a department reorganisation post COVID, or the way in which individuals conduct themselves due to COVID, there will be times when people have a different opinion about the way things should be handled. This leaves everyone with the daunting task of learning to listen and respect the opinions of others, even if they do not agree.
It is important that those in management do not undermine their employees by openly criticising their opinions. At the same time, however, it is perfectly acceptable to be open and honest about their own opinions. Although it can be a tough task, here are a few tips for respecting and accepting the opinions of others, even if you do not agree –
Top tips:
- Form your own opinions.
- Listen with an open mind – Do not personalise someone else’s opinion.
- Appreciate diversity
- Think before you speak
- Try to find common ground
- Put yourself in their shoes – How would you feel if you expressed an opinion, and someone judged you?
More information
We are living in unprecedented times when information is changing so frequently. If you feel you may need some support, you can contact Care first. Care first is a leading provider of confidential, professional counselling, information and advice services. All employees are eligible to use Care first, our services include; telephone counselling, information services and online support. Call Care first on the Freephone number provided by your organisation and you can speak to a professional in confidence.