How To Change Minds

Anything is possible if you are able to find the right way.

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It is hard to convince someone to change their view about a certain matter. People who believe in something will cling on to it even if evidence demonstrates that it is incorrect. Giving them all fresh facts will never work with a firm believer. Here's what I discovered while studying psychology for an unfinished master's degree in teaching and communicating science for many years. People's minds cannot be changed all at once; they must be changed gradually.

1. Know who your target is. No matter how many or how few. What is it that makes them or that person believe what you consider to be incorrect?

2. Find a common ground. You have something in common with these people even if you wish to shift their thoughts in a completely other direction. Find it. Imagine someone who thinks there are no other colors of apples or apples other than green. Here, apples are a common thread. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for apples and your interest in apples. They will now see you as a buddy. They'd be more willing to listen to you!

3. Incorporate in their thoughts the "worm" of "What If?" People will not change their minds if you show them a picture of red apples. If you show them a picture of green apples with one red apple, they will think, "What if?" When these folks think of apples, they wouldn't just think of green apples; they also would think of red apples.

4. Show more evidence, but begin with "maybe," "some think," and "could it be true?" “We only have green apples, but some claim to have seen red ones; is this true?”

5. Make them think about it. It is only possible by stating something really disagreeable this time. It can only be used once you've completed steps one and two. The "worm" of "What if" must be already implanted. Unlike remarks that we agree with, controversial statements engage our minds. It's known as a "hook." "I honestly believe that red apples are just as common as green apples!" This will cause the person who already has the "worm" of "What if" to seek evidence that their former believes are correct and seek further knowledge about it. They will discover that red apples are not uncommon on their own. When someone discovers new knowledge on their own, they are more likely to accept it.

6. After completing all five steps. Don't talk about it for a while. People who need to change their minds should not be pressured.

7. Repeat the steps. You'll notice that it's lot easier this time.

The process is lengthy and might take months or even years. The apples example is simplified, but you should do the same when changing one mind. If the topic is much more complicated, focus on the main point. Leave the rest for later.

Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash