Hi Everyone,

Why do people find it so difficult to adjust an opinion or approach? For example, if having a debate it can be difficult to suddenly say 'Yes, in fact, I agree with you now.' The same applies to organisations with big responsibilities - they tend not to be able to admit that a previous opinion or approach was wrong or inappropriate (hence complaints processes with no real resolutions). The latter might be due to fear of serious consequences such as being reprimanded, but the much simpler former example seems strange. Why is adjusting or changing a simple opinion or approach so difficult when it is, in fact, a sign of growth and development, of being human?!

Best Wishes,

Nicola

Because there are many people who know that they are wrong but won't admit it no matter what you say to them. They just like to argue for the sake of arguing with others not to change their opinions at all. ;)

Why is adjusting or changing a simple opinion or approach so difficult when it is, in fact, a sign of growth and development, of being human?!

The problem with changing opinions can simply be put this way:

Opinions are mental habits.
Habits are hard to break or change.


Give it a try: Try to change the way you brush your teeth; for example, if so far, you've started upper left inside, try by starting lower right outside. Observe how much mental energy and attention it takes to do that.
Now consider how difficult it is to change something as abstract as a mental habit.