. You might be able to do this in relatively straightforward situations. For example, you might compare your traits to the requirements of various jobs and choose the one for which you are best...

. You might be able to do this in relatively straightforward situations. For example, you might compare your traits to the requirements of various jobs and choose the one for which you are best suited. Or you might decide to accept the fact that you are rather introverted, challenge yourself occasionally to be with people, and not feel guilty about spending more time alone. But I doubt that trait theory will help you change fundamental aspects of your personality. If you decide that you’re too lazy in school (or too dishonest), it’s unlikely that you will suddenly start studying diligently (or stop cheating) just because you have used these trait names to describe yourself. (The trait names might even make laziness or cheating more likely because you decide, “This is who I am.”) Trait theory will not provide any explanations for your behavior, and personality change is unlikely unless you understand some of the underlying reasons and improve your self-knowledge.