The Power of Rethinking: How to Challenge Your Own Beliefs with Adam Grant
In a world where strong opinions and entrenched beliefs dominate, the ability to rethink and adapt is becoming an invaluable skill. Heal Squad with Maria Menounos recently welcomed Adam Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist, best-selling author, and expert in human behavior, to discuss the power of rethinking. In his latest book, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know, Grant explores why changing our minds isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower.
Why Rethinking Matters
Many people associate intelligence with certainty, but Grant argues that true wisdom comes from knowing what you don’t know. He encourages people to think more like scientists—constantly questioning, exploring new ideas, and remaining open to change.
“The best scientists don’t cling to their hypotheses,” Grant explains. “They’re quick to admit when they’re wrong because that’s how they get closer to being right.”
If you’ve ever found yourself stubbornly holding onto an outdated belief, you’re not alone. The key to growth isn’t just learning new things—it’s unlearning old things that no longer serve us.
The Rethinking Cycle vs. The Overconfidence Cycle
Grant highlights two opposing mindsets:
- The Overconfidence Cycle: People develop an idea, become overly confident in it, seek out validation, and become resistant to change. This often leads to stagnation.
- The Rethinking Cycle: People recognize their own ignorance, stay curious, update their beliefs based on new evidence, and ultimately become more adaptable and successful.
If you want to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world, you need to embrace the rethinking cycle.
How to Become a Better Rethinker
Grant shared three practical strategies for fostering a rethinking mindset:
1. Make an Ignorance List
Most people focus on what they know, but what about what you don’t know? Grant suggests making a list of areas where your knowledge is lacking. This keeps you humble and reminds you to stay open to learning.
2. Check In with Yourself Twice a Year
Just as you go to the doctor for an annual check-up, take time to reflect on your beliefs and goals. Are they still serving you? Could they use an update? Grant recommends doing this at least twice a year—perhaps on your birthday and half-birthday—as a way to measure your personal growth.
3. Build a Challenge Network
While support networks provide encouragement, challenge networks push you to grow. Surround yourself with people who aren’t afraid to call you out and encourage you to rethink your perspectives.
“I tell my challenge network, ‘If you ever shy away from giving me criticism, you’re letting me down,’” Grant says.
Success Is About Contribution, Not Competition
One of the most powerful takeaways from Grant’s research is the idea that success isn’t about outperforming others—it’s about helping others succeed.
He breaks people down into three categories:
- Givers: Those who freely help others without expecting anything in return.
- Takers: Those who are primarily focused on what they can gain.
- Matchers: Those who operate on a “you help me, I help you” basis.
Interestingly, givers are found at both ends of the success spectrum—they can be either the most successful or the biggest failures. The difference? Successful givers set boundaries and avoid burnout.
Protect the Givers
Grant emphasizes that one of the best things we can do as leaders, colleagues, and friends is to protect the givers in our lives. Givers are often the ones who get taken advantage of, so it’s crucial to support them, acknowledge their contributions, and ensure they aren’t burned out.
Final Thoughts
The ability to rethink and adapt is not just a professional advantage—it’s a life skill that can lead to greater happiness, fulfillment, and success. As Grant puts it, “Let’s be true to our principles but flexible in our opinions.”
For more insights on rethinking, success, and personal growth, listen to the full interview with Adam Grant on Heal Squad with Maria Menounos.
For more healing and wellness tips, be sure to subscribe to the Heal Squad with Maria Menounos podcast via YouTube or Apple Podcasts.
