You probably cannot change someone else’s mind, but you might be able to persuade them to change their own mind.

Statements that contradict their beliefs will probably increase resistance to change. This is why reverse psychology can work. If you know someone hates to agree with you or loves to rebel against you, take the position you want them to avoid. They might automatically move towards where you really want them. This can seem a bit manipulative, and there are better ways…

Ask questions to understand why they hold their beliefs and help them think about it differently. Find an example that clearly contradicts their assumptions.

This is how Trish persuaded me to rethink my views on homeopathy. I expressed some skepticism at the idea that such supplements are effective with such tiny amounts of the active ingredient. She asked me why I believed a molecule of gluten could trigger an immune reaction is some people, but homeopathy could not work the same way.

I did not have a good answer, so now I realize that some homeopathic remedies might work for the same reasons auto-immune disorders are hard to quell. Our immune systems can be incredibly sensitive and react (good or bad) to tiny exposures.

What is something you changed your mind about? Did you do it on your own or did someone help you?