14. Why You Need Mental Flexibility

Most of us are not changeable in our thoughts.  We are rigid, attached to our thinking. Mental flexibility is the capacity, skill of training your brain to be open to thoughts, ideas and perspectives. Like most things in life, this is easier said than done. What generally happens is a new thought is introduced - cognitive dissonance.   This is mental tension caused by conflict of two different ideas or thoughts that contradict each other. We often deal with this by dismissing the new conflicting idea and doubling down on belief in the first area. When you’re mentally flexible, you have the ability to find more paths to a solution, to be open to new ideas, to be accepting of what is even when you don’t like it. You can see things from multiple perspectives.  On the other hand, if you have rigid thinking, you may struggle with creativity, problem solving, conflict resolution and loving and accepting people- including yourself. Learn more about coaching with me: www.coachwithkristen.com Follow me: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/coachwithkristen⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kristen.odegaard.coaching/