Give yourself permission to change your mind

... but don't forget about the consequences

You're allowed to change your mind.

You're allowed to no longer want the things you used to.

You're allowed to start wanting things you previously didn't.

You're allowed to expand, adjust, and reconsider people, things, and ideas.

This constant evaluation and reevaluation of life allow us to live authentically, experience growth, and explore what it means to be human. But while this may sound inspirational, it's not the whole picture. The part of the picture we often overlook is the consequences of changing our minds.

Isaac Newton famously taught us that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Existential causes and effect is similar. Every action comes with an equal sense of responsibility.

If you've changed your mind in a way that impacts people around you (which is your prerogative), it's on you to consider what that change means for them. It’s fine if you wake up one day wanting to change your career, get a divorce, cut your hair, want to try an open relationship, or relocate to a different country. It's your life. But you are still responsible for the promises you made, the lives you've co-created, or a shared mortgage.

None of this means you can't change your mind, but you need to communicate, apologize (when appropriate), and be fair and responsible. Live the life you've been given to your fullest, but don't forget that living your best life does not mean you can ignore how it affects others. Do what fuels your soul while nurturing and protecting your relationships and the communities around you. It's not about self-abandonment. It’s about navigating your life changes with respect, patience, and grace.

Pictured: Me at the Tate last week