The Rich Roll Podcast Me, But Better: Olga Khazan On The Science of Personality Change, Challenging Fixed Mindsets, & The Big Five Traits That Shape Your Life
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Aug 25, 2025 
Join Olga Khazan, a staff writer for The Atlantic and author of "Me, But Better," as she explores the fascinating world of personality transformation. Hear about her journey from anxious introvert to a more liberated self and her reflections on the Big Five personality traits. Discover how everyday frustrations can catalyze significant change and the importance of establishing boundaries in relationships. Olga discusses the interplay of genetics and environment in shaping our identities, and the power of mindfulness and self-acceptance in personal growth.
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Breakdown Sparked The Experiment
- Olga describes a Miami day where small hassles compounded into a nervous breakdown that triggered her project to change.
- She realized routine minor stresses and perfectionism amplified her anxiety until she collapsed emotionally.
Do Therapy Plus Action
- Therapy and antidepressants can reduce neuroticism, but real change requires action beyond talking.
- Actively practice target behaviors and create a structured plan to force yourself into new habits.
OCEAN Frames Personality
- Psychologists summarize personality with five broad traits remembered by OCEAN: openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism.
- These traits shape behaviors, goals, and life outcomes across domains like job performance and relationships.
