The Right to Change Your Mind

I was in training with Esther Perel recently, and she said something eye-opening. She said that what she says today regarding her understanding of couples, training, skills etc., she might change her mind in the future. (Esther Perel is a Belgian-American psychotherapist known for her work on human relationships)

“Men often say that women change their minds too much. I say they sometimes don’t change them enough. I mean changing their state of mind, their attitudes, their outlook, their expectations, their consciousness – most of all, about themselves and what is possible in their lives.” —Julia Alvarez

Many people, especially those in a position of helping others like therapists, healers or teachers, often have this pressure put on them that when they share or teach something, they are held to that standard and must keep holding onto that belief or training.

They are often seen as wrong or unreliable when they change their minds.

There is a difference in sharing knowledge that can be harmful, but if one realizes that what they used to believe in no longer works, it is okay to change their minds and beliefs.

Changing one's mind is a natural and common occurrence for humans.

It is generally considered a sign of growth, open-mindedness, and the ability to adapt to new information or experiences.

Changing your mind can happen for various reasons. It could be prompted by learning new facts, gaining a different perspective, considering alternative viewpoints, or reassessing your beliefs and values.

Sometimes, changing your mind can result from self-reflection, personal growth, or a willingness to challenge previously held assumptions.

In many situations, changing your mind is considered a positive attribute, as it demonstrates intellectual flexibility, critical thinking, and the capacity to learn and evolve.