Unexpected change can create opportunities for personal growth and enable us to achieve new things.
Facing unexpected change can challenge our self-identity and push us to redefine ourselves based on our underlying motivations and purpose.
Deep dives
How unexpected change can lead to personal growth
Unexpected change can lead to personal growth by expanding our capabilities and pushing us to achieve new things. Maya Shankar shares the story of Christine Ha, who became a renowned chef after losing her vision. Ha's limitations led her to develop a new perspective and embrace the challenge of cooking. The unexpected change enabled her to become the first blind contestant on Master Chef, winning the competition. This example illustrates that unexpected change can change what we are capable of.
Reevaluating values after unexpected change
Unexpected change can also lead to a reevaluation of our values. Maya Shankar discusses the story of Florence Williams, whose marriage unexpectedly ended. Florence initially approached the situation as a problem to be solved, seeking closure and solutions. However, after a year of trying various remedies, she realized that embracing the unknown and letting go of the need for cognitive closure brought her more joy and beauty. This experience caused Florence to shift her values and see life as a serendipitous path of discovery.
Redefining self-identity in the face of unexpected change
When faced with unexpected change, our self-identity can be challenged and questioned. Maya Shankar shares her personal experience of losing her ability to play the violin due to an injury. Initially, she grieved not only the loss of the instrument but also the loss of her identity as a musician. However, upon reflection, she discovered that her true passion lay in connecting emotionally with others through music. This realization led her to redefine herself based on her underlying motivations and purpose. This example emphasizes the importance of anchoring our identity to the "why" rather than the specific pursuits in the face of unexpected change.
Unexpected change like an accident, an illness, or a relationship that suddenly ends is inevitable -- and disorienting. With a heartfelt and optimistic take on life's curveballs, cognitive scientist Maya Shankar shares how these challenging moments can inspire transformation, offering three questions to ask when facing uncertainty, so you can let go of rigidity and embrace change.