The idea of growth mindset was popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck in her book “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.” She defines it as the belief that intelligence, abilities, and skills can be developed and improved through effort, practice, and learning. In contrast, a “fixed mindset” is the belief that intelligence and abilities are fixed traits that cannot be changed.
People with a growth mindset embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, while those with a fixed mindset tend to avoid challenges and give up easily when they encounter obstacles. They also tend to view failure as a reflection of their innate abilities rather than as a learning experience.
“Individuals who believe their talents can be developed have a growth mindset. They tend to achieve more than those with a more fixed mindset.”
– Carol Dweck, growth mindset pioneer and author of Mindset.
Why Does Growth Mindset Matter?
Research has shown that having a growth mindset can have a significant impact on success in various areas of life, including academics, sports, and career. People with a growth mindset tend to be more resilient, persistent, and motivated to achieve their goals. They also tend to recover more quickly from setbacks and view them as opportunities for learning and growth.
In contrast, those with a fixed mindset may become discouraged and give up more easily when they encounter challenges or setbacks. They may also be less willing to take risks and try new things, fearing failure and the potential damage to their self-image.
How Can You Develop a Growth Mindset?
While some people may naturally have a growth mindset, it is also possible to develop it through intentional effort and practice. Here are some strategies that can help you adopt a growth mindset:
1. Embrace Challenges
Instead of avoiding challenges or giving up when they become difficult, try to view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Embrace the idea that challenges can help you develop new skills and become a better version of yourself.
At first Samantha was devastated and felt like a failure. However, she decided to use the experience as a learning opportunity using her growth mindset.
2. Learn from Failure
When you experience setbacks or failures, take the time to reflect on what you can learn from them. What did you do well? What could you have done differently? How can you apply these lessons to future challenges?
What separates successful people from those who struggle to achieve their goals? While there may be several factors at play, one of the most important is the mindset that they adopt towards challenges and setbacks. The concept of “growth mindset” has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason.
3. Focus on Effort and Process
Rather than focusing solely on the outcome or the end result, pay attention to the effort and process that goes into achieving your goals. Celebrate your progress and the steps you take along the way, even if you haven’t yet reached your ultimate goal.
4. Seek Out Feedback
Feedback, even when it is critical, can be an opportunity for growth and learning. Be open to feedback from others and use it to identify areas where you can improve.
Samantha sought feedback from her manager on areas where she could improve and worked hard to develop her skills in those areas.
Samantha eventually earned the promotion she had been seeking, and credits her growth mindset with helping her to turn the setback into a learning opportunity.
You can be like Samantha who illustrated the power of growth mindset, she faced challenges and setbacks in their careers and lives, and thrived.
Dig deeper into this subject
- Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (book)
- The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale (book)
- Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill (book)
- The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey (book)
- The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod (Audio book)
- Online course on Creating a Growth Mindset Culture in Your Organization
- How to Develop an Entrepreneurial Mindset: Learn how to think like a businessperson in this free online entrepreneurship course that provides the keys to success.