Can People Change?
The question of whether people can truly change is a deeply philosophical one, yet it also touches upon our daily experiences and relationships. This question is addressed poignantly in *Ted Lasso*, a show celebrated for its exploration of human connection and self-improvement. In Season 3, Roy Kent, a gruff but lovable character, wrestles with whether he has fundamentally changed, despite his efforts. His frustration leads to a conversation among his colleagues about the nature of change—whether it is real, superficial, or simply an illusion of self-acceptance. This essay will explore this question, examining the roles of personal effort, external influence, self-perception, and societal forces in shaping whether people can indeed change.
The Nature of Change: Behavioral vs. Fundamental
Before diving into whether people can change, we must clarify what we mean by "change." Are we talking about surface-level behaviors or deep, intrinsic transformations? Roy Kent’s struggle in *Ted Lasso* highlights a common desire for fundamental change—he doesn’t just want to act differently, he wants to *be* different. This distinction is crucial because while behavioral change is common and often measurable, fundamental change in a person's core identity is far more complex.
Behavioral change refers to modifications in habits, routines, or outward actions. People regularly change behaviors for various reasons, such as quitting smoking, adopting new skills, or improving their physical health. These changes are often driven by external motivations, like social pressure or personal goals. However, as Trent Crimm points out in the show, deeper change—the kind that transforms who we are at our core—is less about becoming someone new and more about accepting who we have always been. This suggests that while people might alter their actions, their essential nature may remain intact.
The Argument for Deep Change
Despite the challenges of fundamental change, there is ample evidence that people can indeed transform in profound ways. Nate Shelley’s perspective in *Ted Lasso*—that people can change for better or worse—reflects a more optimistic view. Psychological research supports this notion. The concept of neuroplasticity shows that the brain can change in response to new experiences and learning. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for instance, helps individuals change not just their behaviors, but also their thoughts and emotional responses, suggesting that even deeply ingrained patterns can be altered.
Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and renowned psychiatrist, argued in his book *Man’s Search for Meaning* that people have the capacity to choose their attitudes and responses, even in the face of extreme suffering. Frankl's philosophy illustrates that personal transformation is possible, even when external circumstances are beyond one’s control. He posited that finding meaning in life allows individuals to transcend their immediate environment and evolve in ways they never thought possible. Frankl’s work supports the argument that humans are not static; they can, under the right conditions, undergo deep and meaningful change.
Self-Perception: A Barrier or Catalyst?
Roy’s frustration with his perceived lack of change highlights the critical role of self-perception in the process of transformation. One of the biggest obstacles to change is the way we view ourselves. If we see ourselves as incapable of change, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Psychologist Carol Dweck's research on fixed and growth mindsets illustrates this concept well. People with a fixed mindset believe their abilities and traits are static, which makes them less likely to embrace opportunities for growth. In contrast, those with a growth mindset believe that improvement is always possible, making them more open to change.
Roy’s belief that he is “still the same idiot” he has always been reflects a fixed mindset, where he judges himself harshly for not achieving an unrealistic ideal. Coach Beard’s comment in *Ted Lasso* that "perfection sucks" is a reminder that change is not about becoming flawless. It is about progress, no matter how small. The simple act of Roy asking for help from his friends is a significant change, one that might not transform him overnight but signals an important shift in his willingness to grow.
External Forces and Change
While personal effort is crucial, external forces often play a significant role in whether and how people change. Social environments, relationships, and societal expectations can all influence personal transformation. In *Ted Lasso*, the idea that asking for help is a form of change highlights the role of community in fostering growth. As Leslie Higgins remarks, "The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when we can." This reflects the importance of a supportive network in the process of change.
Studies on behavioral change show that people are more likely to succeed when they are surrounded by positive influences. For instance, addiction recovery programs emphasize the importance of community support. People struggling with substance abuse often find that they cannot change in isolation; they need the encouragement and accountability provided by a group. Similarly, individuals attempting to change negative behaviors, such as anger or impulsivity, are more successful when they have mentors or friends who model healthier behaviors. In *Ted Lasso*, Ted himself embodies this role for many characters. His patience, kindness, and unyielding belief in others create an environment where people feel safe enough to explore change.
The Struggle for Identity
At the heart of the question of change is the struggle for identity. Roy Kent’s desire to be someone better speaks to the broader human desire for self-improvement. However, the quest for a “better” version of oneself often comes with tension. We are taught to strive for growth, but that growth can sometimes feel at odds with our core identity. Carl Jung’s theory of individuation addresses this tension by suggesting that personal growth involves integrating, rather than rejecting, the different parts of ourselves. Change, in this view, is not about becoming someone else but about becoming more whole by accepting all aspects of who we are—both the light and the shadow.
In Roy’s case, his frustration might stem from a misunderstanding of what change really entails. He believes he must shed his rough edges entirely to be a better person, but in reality, growth might involve accepting those parts of himself while striving to improve how he expresses them. This idea is echoed in many therapeutic approaches, where clients are encouraged to accept themselves as they are while working toward healthier ways of being.
Collective Change and Societal Movements
While personal change is deeply individual, it is also influenced by collective forces. In *Ted Lasso*, the characters do not evolve in isolation. Their growth is shaped by the team, by their friendships, and by the shared struggles they face. The “Diamond Dogs,” a group that fosters emotional openness, represents the power of collective support in fostering change. This idea extends beyond personal relationships to societal movements. Just as individuals grow in response to their environment, societies change when collective action pushes for transformation.
The civil rights movement, for example, brought about significant societal change by challenging entrenched norms and advocating for equality. These changes did not happen overnight, nor were they the result of individual efforts alone. It took collective will, persistence, and the courage to push against deeply ingrained systems. Similarly, the ongoing fight for climate justice shows how societal change often requires a collective shift in mindset and behavior. Individual change is often a microcosm of the broader shifts happening within society.
Conclusion: A Path of Imperfection
So, can people change? The answer is both simple and complex. People can change, but the process is often incremental and imperfect. It is not about achieving some unattainable ideal but about making progress, however slow or small. *Ted Lasso* shows that change is not something that happens in isolation. It is shaped by our relationships, our self-perception, and the broader environment we find ourselves in. As Coach Beard reminds us, perfection is not the goal—growth is. And growth, while messy, is always possible. By embracing imperfection and recognizing that change is a journey rather than a destination, we can find peace with who we are and who we are becoming.