These beliefs are common when it comes to changing a system: one is that it's impossible to do so as an individual, while the other is that it is possible and should be straightforward.
They both reflect some of the truth about changing a system.
Changing the system is possible, even for an individual.
But changing a system is never easy or straightforward. When prepared with resilience and continuous learning, we are better equipped to navigate even the most challenging situations and overcome barriers.
Instead of believing that "changing a system should be (fill your blank)", it helps to separate what we think about it from fully understanding what the system is here to do.
We can't change something if we haven't learned how to see it first.