The Gray Area with Sean Illing How to change your personality
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Mar 3, 2025 
Olga Khazan, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of "Me, But Better," dives into the fascinating realm of personality change. She shares insights from her journey exploring whether personality traits are fixed or can be transformed. The discussion unveils the intricate balance between genetics and life experiences, emphasizing mindfulness and self-awareness as keys to personal growth. Khazan also challenges the notion of inherent traits by revealing how intentional changes can lead to meaningful transformations.
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Defining Personality
- Personality is the consistent thoughts and behaviors you have daily, often helping you achieve goals.
- It's a performance, but with underlying tendencies, influenced by situations and goals.
Big Five Traits
- Big Five personality traits (neuroticism, extroversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness) are generally accepted but imperfect.
- Some cultures have traits not fully captured, and openness is a broad category.
Motivation for Change
- Olga Khazan's motivation for change stemmed from her high neuroticism impacting her reactions to minor setbacks.
- A series of small inconveniences during a day in Miami led to an emotional meltdown, highlighting the need for change.
