You should have an opinion. It doesn’t have to be a hot take or something that you can write 400 to 500 words about, but you should have one. Having an opinion makes you easier to talk to, easier to relate to and a more interesting person.
By not having an opinion, you might think it’s easier to talk to you, but it actually is the opposite. You come across as more distant when you stay neutral. People can’t engage someone who is apathetic or neutral. It is easier for people to have a genuine conversation with you when your thoughts are clear and presentable.
Having an opinion also means you are easier to relate to. People don’t have to agree with you to understand and relate to you. Just engaging with your opinion can make you relatable. Staying silent or giving a basic response is just bland.
Not having an opinion about anything makes you a boring person. You don’t need to have an opinion on everything, but just having zero opinion on every topic makes you not fun to talk to. Not everyone is going to like you or is going to like what you have to say. That will hold true in every aspect of your life. But it will be easier for people to like you if you can form an opinion and fight for what you believe in. It shows the depth of your character and helps mold your personality.
Of course, you don’t need the validation of others to be happy. But you will certainly view yourself as more interesting if you can understand and articulate the opinions you possess.
Having an opinion isn’t enough, though. You need to be able to explain your opinion coherently. Think about what you believe in and be able to explain why you think the way you do. Again, this doesn’t have to be a hot take, it just has to be an opinion.
Lastly, you have to really believe in your opinion. Playing devil’s advocate is boring since people can’t truly interact with you. If you really don’t believe in the opinion, don’t say it.
After working on the Opinion section of the Creightonian for about a year now, I have realized the importance of articulating one’s opinion. Sitting down and writing out what you believe is the easiest way to better understand who you are. I couldn’t recommend writing for this section enough, and I will miss this weekly ritual that has been a part of a good portion of my college career.
Have an opinion. And if you don’t have one, get one.