Sessions

Repeated from Wednesday at 10:15 a.m.

This session will examine an often overlooked and misunderstood attribute—one that, when practiced and mastered, can lead to better interpersonal and organizational outcomes. This little-talked-about attribute, called “open-mindedness,” is the ability (and willingness) to step out of one’s comfort zone and entertain multiple and sometimes dissonant ideas and perspectives. Additionally, it’s the opposite of open-mindedness—closed- or narrow-mindedness—that is the real problem we face when addressing issues of diversity and inclusion. You will learn how human beings have a great tendency to be closed-minded as a natural function of the brain. You will also learn how we can become better at being open-minded, and how an open-minded and mindful approach to life, whether at work or home, can pay huge dividends as we navigate a 21st century world filled with many different perspectives, values and beliefs. By the end of this session, you will:

• Understand why and how we tend to be closed- or narrow-minded from a science perspective.
• Explore the benefits of open-mindedness as an inclusion and organizational performance issue.
• Develop and engage in strategies and techniques that will lead to more open-mindedness and, subsequently, greater inclusion and organizational performance.