People have been asking this question for centuries. The ability of people to change and improve themselves is a concept embedded in the mythology of almost every culture on the planet. Ancient philosophers, spiritual gurus, and psychologists have all wrestled with the human urge to improve, grow and transform. But the modern world still doesn’t have a clear answer. Can people really change?
In this article, we’ll dive into this never-ending debate. We’ll look at different ideas about whether it’s possible for people to really change and how it applies to individual growth, relationships, and even the workplace. By the end of this article, you’ll come away with a clearer idea of the answer to this eternal question.
What Do Research Studies Say?
When it comes to understanding if people can really change, scientific research provides us with an important foundation. While studies have shown that some behavioral changes are more difficult to sustain in an individual than others, the research generally indicates that change is possible.
One study carried out by the University of Michigan found that people could indeed change and maintain such behavioral changes in their life. The three year-long study looked at college graduates who were either unemployed or underemployed at the start of the research. After the three year mark, the vast majority of the participants had transitioned to full-time employment.
Does Changing Yourself Require Work?
In some cases, it may seem like just being able to change is enough. But research suggests this isn’t the case. Researchers have found that it takes more than just the ability to change in order to actually make lasting changes. It requires hard work, dedication, and attention to feedback.
For example, when people attempt to change their habits, they must take the time to identify the habits they would like to change and then create a plan to change them. They must also identify what triggers those habits, and then make plans to combat those triggers. It’s only when people actively work on changing themselves that they stand a chance of succeeding.
Can People Change for the Better?
The idea that people can change for the better is a popular one. And there’s no doubt that it’s possible. People can and do change when they put in the hard work and effort. It’s possible to learn new skills, form healthier habits, and even completely turn your life around.
Studies have also found that, when people actively work to change, the rewards are huge. People who make positive changes in their life often experience increased physical and mental wellbeing, increased self-esteem and greater success in relationships and careers.
How Can People Improve Relationships?
Making changes to yourself can help you to improve your relationships. Studies have found that making changes to your character or behavior can have a positive effect on your relationships. For example, taking time to apologize when you have done something wrong and opening up to your partner can both have a positive effect.
It’s also important to remember that relationships are two-way streets. Both you and your partner will need to make changes in order to make the relationship work. This might mean making changes to how you communicate, express emotions, and react to criticism.
How Can We Change For the Better in the Workplace?
If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut in your career, making changes to yourself can help you to break out of it. The ability to change is essential for career progression, and if you’re not improving, you risk being seen as stagnant.
To improve in the workplace, it’s important to actively work on developing yourself. This could mean improving your skills, learning new things, and taking responsibility for your growth. It’s also important to look out for feedback, both positive and negative, and act on it. Becoming comfortable with making changes in the workplace can greatly help your career progression.
So, can people really change? Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that the answer is yes. It’s possible to become a better version of yourself and leverage the power of change to improve your life and relationships. This change doesn’t come overnight, however. It requires hard work, dedication, and attention to feedback to make lasting changes. But if you’re willing to put in the effort, you can achieve great things.
