Younger and older Thais alike often believe that personality is as fixed as one’s blood type—a destiny defined in childhood and cast for life. However, new research and expert consensus are turning this assumption upside down, revealing that it’s not only possible to intentionally reshape your personality, but also that such change can benefit mental health, social connection, and overall happiness. Recent reporting from CBS News highlights the story of one determined journalist who took on the challenge of self-reinvention, backed by a growing body of psychological science (CBS News). Leading researchers now urge anyone dissatisfied with aspects of themselves, such as anxiety, shyness, or disorganization, to reconsider: your personality is more flexible than you think.
The case study follows Olga Khazan, a journalist who spent years wrestling with social anxiety and high levels of neuroticism. Despite therapy, medication, and yoga, she found herself stuck in patterns that limited her social and personal satisfaction. Finding little relief in traditional approaches, Khazan decided to embark on a year-long experiment to deliberately change her ingrained habits and personality traits—a story that echoes both modern self-help trends and ancient Buddhist teachings about self-cultivation. Her approach involved behavioral interventions like conversation classes, journaling, and even improv comedy—pushing herself repeatedly outside her comfort zone until what once felt awkward became natural.
Why does this matter for Thai readers? Thailand’s social hierarchy, communal culture, and education system place significant value on politeness, deference, and harmony. Many Thais score highly on measures of agreeableness and conscientiousness, while some may struggle with speaking up in class or the workplace—a phenomenon reflected in the “kreng jai” concept (deference to others’ feelings). Understanding that personality is not destiny can empower individuals to address social anxiety, build confidence, and adapt in a rapidly changing society and economy. For students preparing for the demands of innovative workplaces or retirees seeking more fulfilling lives, these findings open the door to proactive self-leadership.
The scientific backbone of this personality revolution begins with research from experts like Professor Shannon Sauer-Zavala at the University of Kentucky. Her studies show that with targeted interventions, people can alter key traits over as little as 12 to 20 weeks. “It doesn’t line up with our science that personality stops changing in adulthood,” said the professor. “When we make intentional changes to our thinking, feeling, and behaviors, and we maintain those changes over time, then we’re essentially shifting our personality” (CBS News).
Other recent research, such as an MSU study published in July 2025, found that as people become more skilled at handling stress, they may naturally become more extroverted—a hopeful finding for those facing Thailand’s increasingly competitive and digital work environments (MSU Today). The practical steps supported by science are clear: begin with a baseline assessment, such as a standardized personality test. Next, identify specific traits to change—for instance, moving from shyness to sociability or from disorganization to orderliness (Medium). The final and most critical stage involves deliberate practice of “opposite” behaviors—forcing oneself to start conversations, keep commitments, or adopt new habits until these behaviors become second nature.
Experts caution that while the principles are simple, the execution is not—requiring ongoing, intentional effort and occasional discomfort. A sense of “faking it” is normal at first, according to Khazan’s experience and leading psychologists; unfamiliar actions feel fake not because they are dishonest, but because the brain needs time to rewire itself. Repeated action is essential to making new ways of being feel authentic. As Khazan writes in her new book, “Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change,” her journey involved frequent setbacks but ultimately left her feeling transformed and far happier (CBS News).
This trend is reinforced by the growing popularity of scientifically-grounded self-improvement books and resources. Jill Suttie’s review for the Greater Good Science Center noted that “one of the biggest obstacles to changing personality is this kind of ambivalence: a sense that yeah, maybe you should get around to being less anxious or chronically late, and maybe one day you will, but not today.” Science now suggests that “today” is as good a day as any to begin (Greater Good).
Thailand has unique cultural nuances around self and personality, influenced by Buddhist teachings on the impermanence of mind and self. In recent years, the mental health sector and education innovators have introduced mindfulness, behavioral therapy, and even drama-based learning to help individuals cope with the stresses of modernization, urban life, and changing family structures. The lesson from the latest Western science aligns seamlessly with Thai wisdom: while temperament may have genetic roots, the everyday habits you cultivate are a fertile ground for growth. Teachers in Thai schools, for example, are increasingly using positive psychology methods to foster resilience and self-confidence in students—helping them speak out or take leadership even when “kreng jai” inclines them toward silence (Goodnet.org).
But not all experts are entirely optimistic about rapid or unlimited change. Some argue that core dispositional traits such as extreme introversion or emotional sensitivity have biological underpinnings that may make dramatic changes difficult or slow. Published analysis in 2024 summarized consensus that while change is possible, there are stability forces at work—early environment, genetics, and long-standing expectations of friends and family all provide subtle resistance (News Medical). For Thai individuals, where family and social roles are emphasized, this may mean that support (or pressure) from loved ones could be either a major help or a hurdle. Cultural factors, such as “face” and saving others from embarrassment, can also shape what types of personality change feel acceptable or risky.
In practice, most experts—both in Thailand and globally—suggest starting with small, manageable steps. This is reflected in both ancient Thai proverbs (“namjai suea dai, tamjai suea bon”—intent can move mountain) and the newest Western guidelines. Journaling, for example, allows people to notice and reinforce positive progress, while joining new community activities can slowly stretch social comfort zones. For students, practicing debate, volunteering, or pursuing leadership within clubs can help foster extroversion, assertiveness, and organizational skills that Thai employers increasingly seek.
Future developments in this field are likely to blend neuroscience, digital tools, and positive psychology. Apps that track mood and behavior, AI-powered coaching services, and online support groups are part of the next frontier. Already, Thailand is seeing an uptick in apps and workshops designed to help employees, students, and retirees set and track personal goals—a sign that the broader society is warming to the idea of intentional self-improvement. As the science matures, more evidence-based resources may soon be available in Thai language, empowering a new generation to take charge of their own growth.
For now, the call to action is clear: If you’re dissatisfied with parts of your personality—whether due to shyness at university, struggle with assertiveness at work, or even difficulty adapting to change—know that evidence supports the possibility of improvement. Take a reputable personality assessment (widely available online in Thai or English), identify an area to enhance, and start with small, daily actions in the direction you desire. Seek out support groups, friends, or teachers willing to encourage your progress. As noted by Professor Sauer-Zavala, don’t let yourself be trapped in a “personality-type box”—think about the life you want to lead, and know that intentional actions can unlock your potential for transformation.
For more resources, check out recent books such as “Me, But Better,” connect with local mental health professionals, or explore workshops at your local university or community center. Remember: Just as Wat Phra Kaew was not built in a day, so too will your new habits require patience and persistence.
Source Citations:
- CBS News, “The science of redesigning your personality”
- Medium, “Can You Change Your Personality? Science Says Yes”
- MSU Today, “Feeling more extroverted? Study finds you may have learned how to handle stress better”
- Greater Good Science Center, “How to Intentionally Change Your Personality”
- News Medical, “A blueprint for personality change: Key mechanisms and stability forces”
- Goodnet.org, “How to Intentionally Change Your Personality”