"You must stick to your conviction, but be ready to abandon your assumptions"

Sticking to one’s conviction suggests the importance of holding firm to deeply held values, principles, or goals. Convictions are the result of careful thought, personal experience, and a sense of integrity; they provide a framework for navigating life’s challenges and making ethical decisions. These inner beliefs become a guiding compass, especially in times of uncertainty, offering consistency and steadiness even when external circumstances are in constant flux.

However, the second part of the statement, the readiness to abandon one’s assumptions, underscores the necessity of intellectual humility and adaptability. Assumptions are often subconscious beliefs or accepted norms about how the world works. Unlike convictions, they might not be thoroughly examined; they can be based on untested ideas, cultural conditioning, outdated information, or biases. Clinging too tightly to assumptions can lead to rigidity in thinking, prevent learning, and hinder growth.

Combining these two ideas reveals a nuanced path to personal and professional development. True strength does not lie in stubbornness but in discernment. Genuine conviction is not threatened by evolving information; rather, it is strengthened by the willingness to test and refine assumptions. In an ever-changing world, new evidence, diverse perspectives, and changing circumstances demand an open mind. By questioning and, when necessary, discarding assumptions, individuals become more resilient, innovative, and receptive to opportunity.

The key is distinguishing between what is foundational versus what is contextual. Convictions dictate purpose and direction; assumptions involve methods, processes, or surface-level perceptions. Maintaining convictions while updating or releasing assumptions ensures authenticity without stagnation. This balance fosters integrity and growth: being unwavering in core values yet flexible in thoughts and strategies. Ultimately, the marriage of steadfastness and adaptability empowers people to navigate complexity with both confidence and clarity, free from the pitfalls of dogmatism or blind conformity.