Mindset is the way in which we approach challenges. You may wonder if there is a correct mindset, or what the correct mindset may be. According to Stanford Professor Carol Dweck, there are two major types of mindsets: the growth mindset and the fixed mindset. A growth mindset is emphasizing the ability to grow and change with the element of effort or hard work. A fixed mindset is one which sets us up as one thing that we cannot change no matter how hard we may try. For example, someone with a growth mindset may approach school with the idea “If I try hard, I will do well”. Someone with a fixed mindset may approach school thinking either “I am smart” or “I am dumb”. Having a growth mindset allows you to use your failures as opportunities for growth, whereas someone with a fixed mindset may view their failures as embarrassing or beat themselves up over it.
If you are sitting at your computer reading this and thinking to yourself “Uh oh, I have a fixed mindset”, do not worry. While there is nothing inherently wrong with a fixed mindset, it may prevent you from reaching your full potential. And contrary to how you may feel in this moment, a growth mindset is something that can be developed with practice. The first step in changing your mindset is establishing how you view challenges. How we view challenges is directly impacted by our mindset. Instead of looking at a challenge as a chance to fail, look at it as an opportunity to find areas for growth. The second step is to examine your beliefs. Our beliefs about ourselves significantly impact our mindset, and how we can grow. When examining your beliefs, you can start with the following questions: What do you believe about yourself? Where do those beliefs come from? How have these beliefs changed my behavior? After looking at your beliefs, look at what drives you in life. What is your purpose? Your passion? How have your beliefs about yourself played a part in your purpose in life? Once you have figured out your existing mindsets, and where you stand on things, the last step is to challenge those mindsets that you have just established. Challenge the automatic thoughts that pop into your head. Challenge yourself. If you cannot figure it out on your own, there are professionals (like us) to help guide you. You are still strong and valuable if you ask for help.
References:
Dweck, C. S. (2008). Mindset: The new psychology of success. House Digital, Inc. Chicago
Klein, G. (2016, May 1). Mindsets. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/seeing-what-others-dont/201605/mindsets
Puff, R. (2017, September 19). Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset. Retrieved from
Razzetti, G. (2019, November 12). How to Upgrade Your Mindset to Succeed in Life. Retrieved from
