How Your Brain Can Change at Any Age: The Shocking Truth About Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Lifelong Ability to Adapt

Once thought to be fixed after childhood, the adult brain is now known to possess remarkable plasticity, capable of forming new neural connections and reorganizing itself in response to experience. This process, called neuroplasticity, underlies learning, memory, and recovery from injury.

Consider London taxi drivers, who must memorize an intricate map of the city’s streets. Brain imaging shows that their hippocampus—the area responsible for spatial memory—grows significantly during their training. This physical change demonstrates that learning can reshape brain structures even in adulthood.

Personality Is Not Set in Stone

Longitudinal studies tracking people over decades reveal that personality traits such as conscientiousness, extraversion, and emotional stability can and do change over time. These shifts are influenced by life experiences, intentional efforts, and changing roles.

For example, individuals who practice outgoing behaviors may become genuinely more extroverted. This flexibility offers hope for those seeking personal growth and transformation.

Adopting a Growth Mindset to Harness Change

Believing that abilities and traits can improve through effort—known as a growth mindset—motivates learning and resilience. People with this mindset embrace challenges and persist despite setbacks, which fosters brain plasticity and personal development.

Using this approach, you can rewire your brain by learning new skills, changing habits, and expanding your sense of self throughout life.