Narrow-minded people have a way of showing their rigidity not just through the things they do, but through the things they say.
Whether they’re dismissing new ideas, rejecting change, or shutting down conversations before they even begin, their words often reveal an unwillingness to grow. These phrases aren’t just frustrating — they limit progress, discourage open discussion, and reinforce outdated thinking. If you hear these things when you’re talking to someone, chances are, you’re dealing with someone who’s not very open-minded.
1. “That’s just the way things have always been.”
Some people refuse to acknowledge that traditions, rules, and beliefs can evolve. They use this phrase as a way to shut down discussions about change, assuming that if something has existed for a long time, it must be right. Instead of considering new perspectives, they cling to the past as if progress is something to fear.
What they don’t realise is that most things in life have changed dramatically over time—often for the better. From social norms to scientific advancements, improvement happens because people challenge outdated ideas. Stubbornly sticking to the past doesn’t make something right; it just makes it resistant to growth.
2. “If it doesn’t affect me, why should I care?”
Narrow-minded people struggle with empathy, often dismissing issues that don’t impact them directly. They fail to see that just because something isn’t their personal problem doesn’t mean it isn’t important. This mindset ignores the fact that society functions best when people look out for each other, not just themselves.
By refusing to acknowledge struggles outside their own, they contribute to larger societal issues rather than helping solve them. Whether it’s inequality, climate change, or public health concerns, turning a blind eye simply because something isn’t an immediate inconvenience is a clear sign of a closed-off perspective.
3. “I don’t see colour.”
At first glance, this might seem like an attempt to be inclusive, but in reality, it dismisses real-world experiences. Saying “I don’t see colour” ignores the fact that race does shape people’s lives in different ways, and pretending otherwise doesn’t erase inequality. Instead of acknowledging diversity and working toward understanding, this phrase attempts to oversimplify a complex issue.
People who genuinely want to embrace inclusivity listen, learn, and recognise differences rather than dismissing them. Ignoring race doesn’t eliminate bias or discrimination—it just avoids uncomfortable conversations. Open-minded people are willing to acknowledge differences while striving for fairness and equality.
4. “You can’t say anything these days.”
Translation: “I don’t like that people are holding me accountable for my words.” This is usually said when someone is called out for saying something offensive, outdated, or insensitive. Instead of reflecting on why certain phrases or beliefs might be harmful, they complain about how society is “too sensitive.” What they fail to see is that language evolves, and so does our understanding of harm. No one is stopping them from speaking, but they are being asked to consider the impact of their words. Open-minded people understand that being more considerate isn’t about censorship; it’s about respect.
5. “I don’t believe in mental health issues.”
This is not only dismissive but also deeply harmful. Mental health struggles are real, scientifically documented, and experienced by millions of people. Ignoring them or acting as if they’re made up only adds to the stigma that prevents people from asking for help. People with an open mind accept that just because they haven’t personally experienced something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Mental health issues aren’t about belief; they’re medical and psychological realities. Dismissing them as an excuse or weakness only reinforces ignorance.
6. “That’s just how I am — deal with it.”
Instead of taking responsibility for their actions, narrow-minded people use this phrase to avoid self-improvement. They act as if personal growth isn’t an option, expecting everyone else to adjust to their flaws instead of working on them. This is a way of saying, “I refuse to change, and I don’t care how it affects you.” The reality is that no one is born perfect, and learning to grow, adapt, and develop better habits is part of life. Open-minded people recognise when they’ve made mistakes and strive to improve. Stubbornly holding onto bad behaviour doesn’t make someone strong — it just makes them unwilling to grow.
7. “You’re too young to understand.”
Age doesn’t automatically make someone wiser. This is often used to dismiss younger generations, ignoring the fact that fresh perspectives are valuable. Just because someone hasn’t lived through the same experiences doesn’t mean their insights are invalid. Instead of assuming that younger people have nothing to contribute, open-minded people engage in conversation and listen. Growth happens when different generations learn from each other, not when one side shuts down discussions based on age alone.
8. “It’s not my problem.”
There’s nothing wrong with setting boundaries, but refusing to acknowledge issues that affect other people shows a lack of empathy. This is often used as an excuse to ignore responsibilities, injustices, or situations where offering help could make a difference. People who care about the world around them understand that everything is interconnected. Even if an issue doesn’t directly impact them today, it might in the future. Being open-minded means recognising that personal responsibility sometimes extends beyond individual concerns.
9. “I don’t need to learn about that.”
Growth requires learning, but narrow-minded people act as if they already know everything they need to. This tends to come out when confronted with new information, perspectives, or cultural awareness. Instead of taking the opportunity to expand their knowledge, they choose to stay comfortable in their current understanding. Open-minded people embrace lifelong learning and acknowledge that the world is constantly changing. Dismissing education or refusing to engage with new ideas doesn’t make someone right — it just keeps them stuck. A willingness to learn is a sign of growth, while shutting it down is a sign of stagnation.
10. “That’s not how we did it back in my day.”
Change is inevitable, yet some people insist on resisting it simply because it’s unfamiliar. They use this to reject progress, as if the past automatically holds all the right answers. Instead of adapting to new ideas, they romanticise old ways of doing things without considering their flaws. Every generation brings new innovations, perspectives, and ways of improving society. Open-minded people understand that just because something worked before doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. Sticking to outdated ideas simply for the sake of tradition limits potential growth.
11. “I just say it like it is.”
There’s a difference between honesty and being rude, but narrow-minded people use this phrase to justify saying whatever they want. Instead of considering how their words might affect other people, they act as if “telling it like it is” makes them bold or truthful. Being direct is fine, but there’s a way to be honest without being cruel. Open-minded people know that communication isn’t just about speaking; it’s also about understanding, empathy, and respect. Thoughtfulness doesn’t weaken honesty; it strengthens it.
12. “That’s not my responsibility.”
While it’s true that everyone has limits on what they can take on, some people use this as a way to avoid helping altogether. Instead of considering whether they could contribute in some way, they dismiss responsibility entirely, assuming someone else will handle it. Being open-minded means recognising when you have the ability to make a difference. It’s not about taking on everything, but about understanding when stepping up matters. A world where everyone only looks out for themselves is a world that struggles to move forward.
13. “I don’t need to hear both sides.”
Narrow-minded people often refuse to consider perspectives that challenge their own. Instead of engaging in open discussions, they decide in advance that they already know the truth. This phrase is a way of shutting down debate before it even begins, reinforcing their belief that no new information is worth their time. On the flip side, those who keep an open mind understand that real learning happens when you’re willing to listen. Even if they ultimately disagree, they still take the time to consider different viewpoints. Dismissing an entire side of a discussion without hearing it only leads to ignorance, not clarity.
14. “That’s just common sense.”
People who say this often assume their way of thinking is the only logical one. But what seems like common sense is often shaped by personal experiences, culture, and background. By using this phrase, they dismiss the fact that different people have different understandings of the world. Rather than assuming that their perspective is the default, open-minded people recognise that what’s obvious to one person might not be to another. True wisdom comes from questioning, learning, and understanding, not just assuming that what you believe is universal.
15. “That’s not how real men/women should act.”
Rigid gender expectations have no place in a world that’s evolving beyond outdated stereotypes. This is usually used to shame people for not conforming to traditional roles, whether in their career choices, emotions, or personal preferences. It reinforces the idea that there’s only one “right” way to be a man or a woman. Open-minded people understand that gender roles are fluid and that everyone should be free to express themselves in ways that feel authentic. Instead of forcing people into narrow boxes, they embrace individuality. Defining someone’s worth based on outdated ideas of masculinity or femininity limits personal growth and self-acceptance.
16. “People are just too sensitive these days.”
Whenever a topic about respect, inclusion, or accountability comes up, this phrase tends to follow. It’s often used to dismiss concerns about offensive or outdated behaviour, as if the problem isn’t the comment or action itself, but people’s reactions to it. Instead of considering why something might be hurtful, they blame other people for not “toughening up.” The truth is, society evolves, and with that comes a better understanding of how words and actions impact everyone around them. Open-minded people don’t see kindness and awareness as a burden—they see them as progress. Instead of clinging to the past, they recognise that adapting to new standards of respect is part of being a thoughtful human being.
