To be able to understand a Growth Mindset we also need to consider the opposing force here; a Fixed Mindset. I'm sure this sounds like an easy decision, let's pick growth! You may find yourself thinking, "I have a growth mindset!" and this may be true to a certain extent, but a growth mindset is much more than having an open mind and being open to change. It's more about our talents and how we perceive ourselves. Do you get defensive when someone challenges who you are? This is considered a fixed mindset trigger. We all have them.
What does a fixed mindset trigger look like? When we face challenges like criticism, or we get comparative with other people, we are experiencing a fixed mindset trigger. Essentially, fixed mindset triggers are what cause us to retreat, get defensive, and feel insecure. All of these things inhibit growth. Watch out for your own personal fixed mindset triggers and the way you respond to them.
People with a growth mindset believe their talents can be improved through hard work, dedication, and the influx of new knowledge. They take criticism well, less often feel insecure, and in conclusion, exude confidence. These are our learners! If you are someone who strives for knowledge in order to be your best self? You are more in a growth mindset place.
People with a fixed mindset believe a little too much in the power of extrinsic energy. Blaming the world for their problems, and thinking the only way to get ahead is to beat the system somehow. They often do not have the ability to enhance their talents in anyway because of this. Adaptation being something unnecessary to survival.
Psychologist Carol Dweck coined the terms fixed mindset and growth mindset to describe the beliefs people have about their intelligence and abilities. If you have a fixed mindset, you assume qualities such as intelligence, character, and ability are stable and cannot be changed. If you have a growth mindset, you believe these qualities can be improved with effort. You view challenges and obstacles as natural and a part of learning.
Having a growth mindset is beneficial because you are more likely to succeed, you tend to be more motivated, and you are less discouraged by challenges. In contrast, if you have a fixed mindset, you might avoid challenges and feel like a failure because you believe you lack the ability to succeed. Fortunately, mindset can change, and the key to changing your mindset lies in self-awareness.
1. Listen to your mindset "voice". Become aware of the internal commentary that happens when you face challenges or difficulties - including mistakes, setbacks, or when you receive criticism.
2. Identify whether your thoughts represent a fixed or growth mindset. You have a fixed mindset if your internal voice tends to say things like "I can't do this," "I'm not good enough," "I'm not smart enough," or "I failed before, so I'll probably fail again." If you have a growth mindset, your internal voice is encouraging and optimistic.
3. Choose to change. When you are aware of your mindset voice, you can choose differently. If you notice discouraging fixed mindset commentary, you can shift to a growth mindset. You can mentally shift your perception of your abilities and the challenge you are facing. In other words, respond to your fixed mindset commentary with growth mindset commentary; for example, "I'm really having a hard time with this situation, but I have the tools to overcome it," or "Everyone experiences failures along the way, and If I use my available resources I will likely succeed."
4. Take actions that reflect a growth mindset. Imagine what types of actions you can take that reflect a growth mindset. For example, you can approach challenges or obstacles with enthusiasm and curiosity, interpret failures as learning opportunities, learn from setbacks and try again, or receive criticism with an open mind. As with many activities, the more you practice acting in line with growth mindset, the more natural it becomes.
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