Can People Truly Change Their Ways: The Power of Choice and Transformation

People change, but can they truly transform their ways? This age-old question has sparked countless debates and intriguing discussions. While personality tends to become more rigid around the age of 30, choice and external factors still play a crucial role in change. This article explores the dynamics of change, incorporating a personal anecdote and the powerful story of a man's transformation from a convicted prisoner to a reformed individual.

The Illusion of Rigidity

Traditionally, it has been thought that once a person reaches their late twenties or early thirties, their personality becomes drastically set. However, this is not entirely true. While changes in personality can be difficult, particularly once a certain age is reached, it is still possible for individuals to adapt and change their perspectives and behavior. This change, however, often requires effort, willingness to accept temporary discomfort, and support from others.

The belief that people can’t change their minds is deeply rooted. According to the saying, 'If you want something bad enough, you will have the desire to change, no matter the obstacles.' This emphasizes that change is a choice. Indeed, one’s capacity to change is not solely limited by their age or personality traits but by their willingness to initiate and sustain the change process.

A Heartwarming Tale of Transformation

A vivid example of the power of change and transformation can be seen in a touching story. A man who was previously a convicted criminal, after getting the proper training and support from the authorities, ultimately transformed his behavior. This improvement was remarkable enough to warrant his release and a 10-month stay behind bars for the convicted was replaced with hope and progress.

The remarkable story continues with the reconciliation between the convict and his former high school classmate, who is now a judge. She had earlier praised him in court for being a great person during high school, without fully realizing the impact her words had on him. This example underscores the profound influence that external support and guidance can have in the profound change of an individual's character.

The Dots Between Personality and Character

While personality can adapt and improve, it remains largely stable over time due to its deep-seated nature. On the other hand, character can be more flexible and transformative. Character is the manifestation of an individual's core values, beliefs, and actions, and is heavily influenced by their personality. However, unlike personality, which primarily shapes a person’s behavior, character can be altered and adapted significantly through personal experiences, guidance, and a willingness to change.

Social, emotional, and environmental factors can all play a role in shaping and altering character. For instance, a person might develop a more empathetic and cooperative character after engaging in volunteer work or community service, even if their personality remains unchanged. While personality sets the foundation, character determines the direction and extent of one's development.

The saying, 'From any perspective, there will be opinion, fact, and the truth. One of them cannot be changed, altered, and removed, which is the truth. An opinion may be a fact and a fact may be an opinion. But the truth will always trump them both because both opinion and fact can be changed and removed only by the truth,' highlights the importance of recognizing the distinction between these concepts. In the journey of change, the pursuit of truth is essential for any meaningful transformation.

Ultimately, the power to change exists within each individual, and the choice to do so is a personal one. Whether it's the desire to change one's perspective, adapt to new challenges, or evolve into a more virtuous individual, the possibility of change is constant, especially with the right support and mindset.

Conclusion

Change is not a one-time event but a continuous process. While personality tends to become more rigid with age, character remains dynamic and flexible. The story of the convict-turned-reformer and the profound influence of external support serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible. It challenges the notion that once a person reaches a certain age, they are set in their ways. Whether it be through personal choice, external support, or a willingness to embrace truth, change is a choice.