Jonathan Safran Foer: 'The question, I've come to think, is not what inspires one to change, but what inspires one to remain changed.'

The question, I've come to think, is not what inspires one to change, but what inspires one to remain changed.

The quote by Jonathan Safran Foer, "The question, I've come to think, is not what inspires one to change, but what inspires one to remain changed," carries within it a profound exploration of the nature of personal transformation. At first glance, it suggests that true change is not merely brought about by external forces or fleeting moments of inspiration, but instead, it hinges upon the internal motivation that sustains that transformation over time. Rather than focusing solely on the catalyst for change, Foer's words invite us to delve deeper into the essence of what fundamentally drives us to maintain the transformative process.This quote presents an interesting departure from the conventional understanding of change. Typically, we associate change with specific instances – a life-altering event, a meaningful encounter, or an impactful realization. These external stimuli can indeed spur us towards significant transformations, prompting us to adopt new mindsets, beliefs, or behaviors. However, what often remains unexplored is what enables individuals to continue embodying that change long after the initial inspiration has faded.To gain a fresh perspective on this matter, we can turn to a concept from the field of philosophy known as existential inertia. Stemming from the branch of existentialism, this concept delves into the factors that prevent individuals from actualizing their potential or embracing lasting change. According to existential inertia, humans possess a natural inclination towards maintaining the status quo, resisting change, and avoiding the discomfort associated with personal growth. This perspective introduces an unexpected philosophical framework that complements Foer's quote beautifully.When we juxtapose Foer's idea of remaining changed and existential inertia, intriguing parallels begin to emerge. Both suggest that the challenge lies not in initiating change, but rather in finding the inner motivation to sustain it. Existential inertia describes the forces that perpetuate our resistance to change, revealing the complex interplay between our desires for growth and our gravitational pull towards the familiar and comfortable. In this context, the question raised by Foer takes on a deeper significance – what precisely can inspire us to combat existential inertia and embrace a state of sustained change?While the answer to this question may vary from person to person, one possible source of enduring inspiration is authenticity. When individuals align their actions, beliefs, and values with their true selves, change becomes a purposeful and meaningful process. By embracing authenticity, one can cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn fuels the internal fire necessary to sustain personal transformation. Authenticity functions as an antidote to the pull of existential inertia, empowering individuals to remain steadfast in their commitment to change long after the initial spark.Moreover, another factor that can inspire individuals to remain changed is the cultivation of a supportive community. Surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who share similar aspirations can provide the necessary encouragement, accountability, and understanding to overcome the obstacles inherent in the process of change. Through shared experiences, mutual support, and collaborative growth, such communities create an environment conducive to sustaining lasting transformation.In summary, Jonathan Safran Foer's quote challenges us to consider the essence of sustained change rather than fixating on the catalyst for change itself. By introducing the concept of existential inertia, we gain a broader understanding of the attitudinal, emotional, and psychological forces that erode our motivation to remain changed. However, this exploration also reveals that authenticity and the cultivation of a supportive community serve as potent inspirations to combat existential inertia. By embracing our true selves and connecting with others who share a similar drive for growth, we can find the necessary internal resources to maintain our transformative journey. Ultimately, the real question lies not in what inspires us to change, but what empowers us to remain transformed.