People Using An Absolutist Approach Tend To

People who adopt an absolutist approach tend to see the world in black and white. They believe in strict rules, fixed principles, and unchanging truths. While this mindset can provide clarity and decisiveness, it can also lead to rigidity, conflict, and an inability to adapt.

In this topic, we’ll explore what it means to take an absolutist approach, its common characteristics, and how it affects decision-making, relationships, and problem-solving.

Table of Contents

What Is an Absolutist Approach?

An absolutist approach refers to a way of thinking where everything is seen in absolute terms-either right or wrong, good or bad, success or failure. There is no room for nuance, exceptions, or middle ground.

This way of thinking can be applied to morality, politics, religion, business, and personal relationships. Absolutists often:

Stick to firm beliefs and reject alternative viewpoints.
See rules as inflexible and unchangeable.
Make quick judgments based on strict principles.
Struggle with uncertainty and compromise.

While absolutism can provide structure and order, it can also create challenges in adapting to reality, where most situations exist in a gray area.

Characteristics of People Who Use an Absolutist Approach

1. They See the World in Black and White

Absolutists believe that there is always a clear right and wrong answer. They do not recognize gray areas or situational differences.

For example:

In politics, they may see one party as entirely good and another as completely bad.
In business, they might think a decision is either a complete success or a total failure, without considering partial achievements.
In relationships, they may believe that a person is either loyal or a betrayer, with no middle ground.

This mindset can lead to intense disagreements, as absolutists may refuse to acknowledge different perspectives.

2. They Struggle with Flexibility and Change

People using an absolutist approach resist change because they believe in fixed truths.

They may reject new information that contradicts their beliefs.
They might struggle in workplaces that require adaptability and creativity.
They often see modifying rules as a sign of weakness or compromise.

This can cause problems when dealing with evolving societal norms, technological advancements, or shifting personal circumstances.

3. They Make Rigid Moral Judgments

Absolutists tend to judge morality in strict terms. They believe that certain actions are always good or always bad, regardless of context.

For example:

A person who values honesty above all might believe that lying is always wrong, even if it’s to protect someone’s safety.
A leader who follows strict rules might refuse to bend policies, even when doing so would benefit their team.

This can make absolutists appear principled and consistent, but it can also make them seem harsh and unforgiving.

4. They Are Less Likely to Compromise

Compromise requires seeing multiple sides of an issue, something that absolutists struggle with.

In politics, they may refuse to work with opposing parties.
In relationships, they might end friendships over small disagreements.
In business, they could reject deals that don’t perfectly align with their vision.

While sticking to principles can be admirable, refusing to compromise often leads to missed opportunities and unnecessary conflicts.

5. They Experience Higher Levels of Stress and Frustration

Because absolutists see things in extremes, they tend to experience:

More disappointment when things don’t go as expected.
Higher stress because they struggle to accept uncertainty.
Frustration with others who don’t share their rigid views.

This can lead to strained relationships, workplace conflicts, and difficulty in personal growth.

How an Absolutist Approach Affects Different Aspects of Life

1. In Decision-Making

Absolutists make quick decisions based on their firm beliefs. While this can be useful in situations that require strong leadership, it can also lead to poor choices in complex situations.

For example:

A manager who refuses to listen to employee feedback might ignore a major problem.
A person who insists on strict dieting might develop unhealthy eating habits instead of finding balance.

2. In Relationships

An absolutist mindset can cause conflicts with family, friends, and romantic partners.

They might cut people off for small disagreements.
They may struggle to forgive mistakes.
They could force their values onto others, leading to resentment.

Healthy relationships require understanding, compromise, and flexibility, which absolutists may find challenging.

3. In the Workplace

In professional settings, absolutists may struggle with collaboration and innovation.

They might reject new ideas because they believe their way is the only correct way.
They could resist changes in company policies.
They may struggle to work with diverse teams due to their rigid thinking.

While their strong sense of principle can be an asset, it can also limit their growth and effectiveness as leaders or team members.

4. In Mental Health

Absolutist thinking has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression.

When they experience failure, they see it as total defeat, rather than a learning experience.
They may put immense pressure on themselves to meet unrealistic standards.
They often have difficulty coping with uncertainty, leading to stress.

Developing a more flexible mindset can improve emotional well-being.

How to Overcome an Absolutist Approach

1. Recognize Gray Areas

Not everything is strictly right or wrong. Learning to see nuance helps in making better decisions and maintaining healthier relationships.

Ask yourself:

"Are there exceptions to this rule?"
"Can both sides have valid points?"
"Is there a middle ground?"

2. Practice Open-Mindedness

Being open to different perspectives does not mean abandoning personal values. It means being willing to learn and adapt.

Listen to others without immediately rejecting their views.
Accept that people have different experiences that shape their beliefs.
Allow room for personal growth and change.

3. Learn to Adapt

Flexibility is a valuable skill in life and work. Instead of resisting change, try to:

See it as an opportunity for growth.
Focus on solutions rather than rigid rules.
Accept that not everything is black and white.

4. Develop Emotional Resilience

By shifting away from extreme thinking, it becomes easier to handle setbacks.

Instead of "I failed completely," say "I learned something valuable."
Instead of "This person is terrible," consider "They made a mistake, but they have good qualities too."

A balanced mindset leads to better relationships, smarter decisions, and greater emotional well-being.

People using an absolutist approach tend to see the world in black and white, make rigid moral judgments, and struggle with compromise and change. While this mindset provides clarity and conviction, it also creates stress, conflict, and limited growth.

By recognizing gray areas, practicing open-mindedness, adapting to change, and developing resilience, individuals can break free from rigid thinking and embrace a more balanced, fulfilling life.