Things That Change Your Personality

For the most part, our personalities are hardwired. They are engrained in us from birth and we tend to stay true to them throughout our lives. But, there are some significant events that can have such a big impact on us that they can change our personalities. Here are some of the major events or things that can change a person’s personality, for better or for worse:

·        Overcoming major obstacles. We often hear stories of how people overcome a major illness and turn their life around, or endure a traumatic event to come out and make major changes to the way they live their lives. Being faced with major obstacles like a life threatening illness or significant traumatic event can shake us to the very core, and gives people an eye opening experience. The idea of facing death inspires people to look at their lives and wish they had done things differently. When given a “second chance” at life these people often come out with a makeover in their personalities. Someone who was once bitter and pessimistic can become kind and optimistic, or someone who was high strung and a control freak can become relaxed and mellow.

·        Money. Sometimes for the better, but often for worse, money has the ability to change people. People often undergo many emotional and personal changes when they inherit a large amount of money, win the lottery, or get a job that suddenly pushes them into a new, higher lifestyle bracket. Money often brings out the worst in people, bringing out greed, pretentiousness and arrogance, although some people choose to let go of negativity and stress and are able to enjoy their newfound wealth, especially if they choose to share it with others less fortunate.

·        Power. Like money, power often brings out negative changes in people’s personalities. Having a taste of power when you previously didn’t have any can prompt people to want more and more. People who gain power suddenly can get lost in it’s allure, and forget about the simpler things in life that used to bring them joy at the expense of their new power.

·        Success. Sometimes when power is achieved through a person’s hard work and dedication to their goals, it can have a more positive effect. When someone succeeds, especially at a high level, it has the ability to change who they are. Someone who used to be meek and lacked confidence can become inspirational and visionary and be full of confidence.

·        Getting hurt. Getting hurt or shut down, especially repeatedly, can take a toll on a person, and have a negative effect on their personality. Someone who was once joyous and free spirited can get beaten down to the point where they become pessimistic and reserved. Being told that you aren’t good enough is a burden on a person’s personality and over time their positive traits can become diminished.

·        Toxic people. Spending time with toxic people, or people who are bad for us, can also take a toll on a persons personality. We can get so wrapped up in the people around us that they can rub of on us and have a bad influence on us, particularly if they make us feel ashamed or embarrassed about the way we are. If they mock or put down our personalities we can change over time to become more like them and less and less like our true selves.