It’s Okay to Change Your Mind

By Shola Richards

A dirt road in a grassy field

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Yes, you have permission to change your mind.

I know that might sound simple, but stick with me here.

How many people are trapped in careers, relationships, or life paths simply because they announced their intentions at some point and now feel obligated to stick with them, even when those intentions are making them miserable?

Personally speaking, I spent the first part of my career convinced I had to be the guy who was so locked-in on my goals that I never changed direction. Real success meant staying the course no matter what, and I saw changing my mind as an admission of weakness (or worse, failure).

I was wrong about all of it.

The truth is, the ability to evolve, to admit when something isn’t working, and to pivot when necessary isn’t a character flaw, it’s actually a superpower. It’s called growth, and if we’re doing this human thing correctly, it’s something that we should all be doing in some capacity every day.

Maybe you’ve been in a job that no longer aligns with your values, but you’re afraid people will think you’re not committed if you leave. Maybe you’ve been pursuing a goal that you realized isn’t actually your goal, but you’re embarrassed to admit you were wrong. Maybe you’ve been trying to be someone you’re not because that’s who you thought you were supposed to be.

Here’s your official permission slip: it’s okay to change course.

The people who matter won’t judge you for evolving. In fact, they’ll respect you more for having the courage to be honest about what’s working and what isn’t.

And the people who do judge you? I promise you that their opinion says more about them than it does about you. Besides, why are you giving your time and energy to people whose opinions you don’t value anyway?

I’m not suggesting you become a complete flake or that you quit at the first sign of difficulty. I’m talking about that deep knowing when you’ve given it an honest effort, but your gut is telling you it’s time for a change.

Maybe it’s time to quit your job.

Maybe it’s time to leave the relationship that is becoming toxic.

Maybe it’s time to stop pouring your time and energy into that side hustle that’s diminishing your happiness, your sanity, and your bank account.

Either way, here’s what I know for sure: life is too short to stay stuck in situations that drain your soul simply because you’re afraid of what others might think. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for choosing your happiness, your well-being and your future.

In other words, you know when something isn’t right for you anymore.

So, if you’re waiting for a sign from the universe about what to do next, consider the fact that you’re still reading this article on my website as your official green light to take action.

You already know what to do, my friend. Make today the day that you actually do it ❤️.