By: Moira Du
Most people understand the importance of a good mindset. When something unfortunate happens to you, most people respond with “look on the bright side” or “think positive”. This is evidence enough that most people can comprehend what a good mindset can help you accomplish. The problem lies in knowing what mindset you should have and how you can achieve it.
In 2006, a psychologist named Dr. Carol Dweck wrote a book called ‘mindset’ which to this day is considered revolutionary. It talks about the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset and why and how a growth mindset is infinitely better. We understand that most of us either don’t have the time to read a whole book or lack the attention span for it so, here’s everything you need to know about fostering a growth mindset.
What is a growth mindset?
Let’s start from the top. A growth mindset is a mindset in which people believe that success is determined by effort and hard work. Those with a growth mindset usually believe that the skills they have can still be improved upon if they put enough time into it.
How do you foster a growth mindset?
Changing your mindset is a journey that won’t happen overnight. One of the best ways to slowly change how you think is by building good habits. Here are a few ways you can start fostering a growth mindset.
- Start using the word ‘yet’.
It’s may seem like a very small thing but, how you speak can affect your mindset. For instance, instead of saying “I don’t know how to”, you can say “I don’t know how to yet”. It’s more positive and makes you believe that you’re willing to learn, that not knowing is not the end.
- Wake up early and make your bed.
One of the best ways to motivate yourself is by waking up early. It doesn’t end there. When you wake up, don’t just sit in bed for hours scrolling through your phone. Get up. Make your bed. Make breakfast. Shower. Work out. Having a productive morning will have you set for the whole day.
- Find examples of others who have a growth mindset.
Seeing others with a growth mindset might motivate you to start fostering one as well. It will also help you figure out what a growth mindset actually is. If you see what they do everyday, you’ll be able to figure out how you can start on your journey to a growth mindset.
- Set goals for yourself.
Having goals for yourself will give you a sense of purpose. In achieving your goals, you achieve a sense of fulfillment which, according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, is something we all need to live a full life.
At the start of the year, write down the goals you have for yourself. What do you want to accomplish? Who do you want to be?
- Take every opportunity.
Finally, take every opportunity. Those with a growth mindset understands the importance of, as the name suggests, growth. Whether or not that opportunity will lead to failure, it’s a risk you must be willing to take because in every opportunity, there is a lesson to be learned.
We’re not saying take every opportunity because we don’t want you to fill your plate to the brim. We’re saying, don’t reject opportunities because of fear or because you do not think you’re capable of doing it.
Fixed vs. Growth Mindset
The fixed mindset is one where you believe that you are born with your skills and talents and that what you’re capable of when you’re born can no longer be changed no matter what you do. The growth mindset, on the other hand, believes the opposite.
Let’s say you play basketball. If you have a fixed mindset, you believe that no matter how much practice and time you put in, your shots from the 3-point line can no longer be improved. If you have a growth mindset, you’re willing to try to improve your abilities and practice day in and day out because you believe that enough practice will get you to where you want to be.
The Takeaway
Those with a growth mindset are more likely to take risks, reap rewards, work hard, and achieve their goals. Make sure to start forming habits that lead you towards a growth mindset rather than a fixed one. What are you waiting for? The world of opportunity awaits. You only need to have the right mindset to see it.
