By Ritvik Ellendula
Growth Mindset Defined
What does it mean to grow? Google defines growth as the process of increasing in physical size. However, in terms of a growth mindset, this refers to a state of mind, focusing on learning rather than performance. Rather than increasing in physical size, one increases in wisdom and moral character. For instance, let’s say an athlete performs poorly in competition. The athlete couldn’t live up to their expectations and potential, and as a result has experienced a “failure”. When this occurs, the athlete has two options. One, the athlete can whine and complain, staying stagnant and making excuses for their performance. Two, the athlete can reflect on the experience and grow from the failure so that they grow continuously. The second option is an example of a growth mindset. However, this idea of a growth mindset doesn’t only apply to athletes only, anyone can apply it to their life. THAT is the true superpower of possessing a growth mindset.
Growth Mindset V. Fixed Mindset
As seen in the example, in the first scenario the athlete displays a fixed mindset, but in the second scenario, the athlete displays a growth mindset. A growth mindset as explained before is a desire continuously developed with a major emphasis on progressive learning. This mindset helps in all aspects of life, and can lead to increased performance. The most important aspect of people who have a growth mindset is that they view failures as stepping stones for you on your way to success. People with a growth mindset view every experience as an opportunity to grow, which helps them throughout their entire life.
The other mindset is a fixed mindset. People with a fixed mindset believe they are unchangeable and cannot grow. This type of mindset can be very detrimental, as it leads to no growth. Rather than learning from every experience, nothing is gained from an event or challenge, leading to plateauing and reaching our limits early. Overall, a fixed mindset is the opposite of a growth mindset, and inversely results in either worse performance or stagnant performance.
Benefits
Now that you know both what a growth mindset and a fixed mindset is, what are the particular benefits of a growth mindset over a fixed mindset?
- Improves Self-Esteem
- Learn New Skills
- Accept New Challenges
- Increase Performance
- Looking for feedback
- Improved career performance
- Better resilience
- Believing in no limits
- Inspire others
- Less stress
In conclusion, a growth mindset can be life changing. By changing your mindset from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, not only your outlook on life changes but also your energy. People with a growth mindset are optimistic, risk-taking, adventurous, and happy. And by possessing a growth mindset, you can be too!
