Close-minded is when you believe in something or in someone and your mind will stay closed to that belief and will not even try to acknowledge any other idea or concept.
.
Nobody wants to admit they’re close-minded. Ask anyone, and 90% of the time, they’ll tell you they’re an open-minded, positive individual who’s (apparently) a great listener.
.
Each of us knows at least one person whom we would say has a closed mind (unfortunately social media has discovered many more). When one’s mind is made up, there is no changing it. Fundamentally, what closed-mindedness does is shut out the possibility of original thinking. Something that is positively required in the martial arts.
.
Unfortunately, closed-minded people can take positions of power over others, become instructors and teachers—thus training others to likewise have closed minds.
.
The open-minded person is willing to explore his own mind and even find that he’s been wrong about something and self-correct. The closed-minded person is unwilling to do this. Being wrong is simply not acceptable. Being right at all times is all that matters, and they will provide evidence of this, even when that evidence is circumstantial and doesn’t support their beliefs.
.
For this reason, trying to talk with the closed-minded person out of a closed mind is not likely to succeed. Arguing, trying to prove your points, these are methods that are likely to fail.
.
Personally, I can’t argue with these individuals who refuse to broaden their perspectives, it’s a waste of time. (Press the delete or unfriend button now)
.
A person with an open mind engages in curiosity by picking at the knowledge of others so that he or she can learn about the truth…… Of vital importance in the martial arts. People who, when in conversation, stay intent as they listen to the other party, so they can grasp what is said, so they can then ask relevant, valuable questions and learn.
.
Close-minded people believe what they have to say is most important. And they value what they say more than anything. They choose to state their opinion and leave it there without allowing any objection.
.
Open-mindedness doesn’t start with saying that you are. It begins with accepting that you weren’t. Take steps to look around and realize what you don’t know. Open-minded people welcome change, challenge, and the unknown. That’s the right way to learn and improve. 
.
.
With thanks to Andrea Mathews, LPC, NCC, cognitive therapist and author
.