wrong beliefs

A major reason we cling to wrong beliefs is the emotional pain we experience when confronted with the knowledge that we are wrong.  Emotions such as shame and humiliation get triggered - emotions that are so painful we will do almost anything to avoid them.  So, we bluster, deny, make excuses, or create elaborate explanations to protect ourselves and gain short term relief.  The problem with these strategies and behaviours is in the longer term  authentic, meaningful dialogue disappears.  Intimacy and connection to others disappear.  Learning how to tolerate these painful emotions is key in being able to acknowledge our errors and allow new information in that allows us to then rationally and logically integrate it so that we can adjust our beliefs to more accurately reflect the reality of the world around us.  The benefit - emotionally satisfying relationships that permit our true self to emerge in its full potential.