It’s a difficult thing to admit when we are wrong, but everybody at some point in their lives has been in a position where we question our own thinking. All people handle this question differently and even choose to ignore the doubt and plow on with their same worldviews. Other people stop and make a change once they realize their error. Many of us end up somewhere in the middle—recognizing we may be wrong but also being hesitant or simply not knowing how to proceed from there.

A great way to handle the discomfort that comes with realizing you’re wrong is to reframe it in your mind. In his book Think Again, Adam Grant calls upon readers to take on a “scientific” mindset. What he means by this is that we should examine the way we think as if we are scientists discovering something new. We should be curious about why we could possibly be in the wrong and take it as an opportunity to explore, rather than one to feel guilty. This makes changing our mindsets into something adventurous rather than scary.

But it’s also important to remember that feelings of discomfort are completely normal. Being a flexible thinker means addressing that we will be uncomfortable at times, but pushing on anyway. This is an important skill to have in life, because one way or another, most people are exposed to new experiences that make them question what they know. These experiences often happen during college, a big move, or even a new job—all things that many people do within the span of their lives. So instead of turning away and refusing change, we have the opportunity to grow as people. It can be scary, but not impossible. 

There are so many benefits to having a flexible mindset. It makes us better leaders who are willing to look at both sides without bias to solve conflict. It makes us better friends who are able to embrace the people we love as they are. It makes us better parents who are able to test out different styles of parenting so that our children can live good and happy lives. The brief discomfort that comes with change is well worth the outcomes. 

In fact, having an open mind is likely what led to the foundation of Casa Tabito and Grace & Fire. For those who don’t already know, Casa Tabito provides aid for mothers of malnourished children in Guatemala. Grace & Fire is a weaving collective that partners with Casa Tabito to provide jobs for the mothers. These mothers are then able to earn money independently without having to leave their children home alone. Both organizations were created after just a visit to Guatemala. Imagine if the founders rejected new cultures different from their own and had never traveled to Guatemala. Babies wouldn’t have been revived. Homes wouldn’t have been built. Women wouldn’t be working with Grace & Fire to provide for their children. All of these things were possible because someone was willing to have a flexible and open mind. 

The next time you find yourself scoffing at a new idea, take the time to analyze the other side. Why do you disagree? Does the opposing side actually align with your personal values more? Life isn’t black and white, and there is always room for growth. And most importantly, remember that discomfort is an opportunity for improvement.