fixed mindset vs. growth mindset
Photo by Bekka Mongeau: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-printer-paper-22221/
Mindset is quite the buzzword these days, isn’t it? As a life coach, I use it quite often myself. I believe that with a positive, healthy mindset, we have the power to heal, grow, recover, evolve, and achieve our goals. It sounds like a lot to place in one’s frame of mind, but think about it: if we’re stagnant and negative, how much can we achieve? First, we need to know what our mindset is before we can change it. Thanks to Carol Dweck, a researcher at Stanford University, we now know there are two types of mindsets: Fixed and Growth.
A person with a fixed mindset believes that things like intelligence, skills, talents, and other abilities are things we’re born with. They believe that if they’re not good at something, they’ll never be good at it. They think their “failures” validate that they lack the intelligence to succeed. They tend to give up quickly because they fear failure and think there’s no way they can improve.
Someone with a growth mindset believes intelligence, skills, talents, and other abilities can be learned through hard work and practice. They have a positive frame of mind; even if they don’t succeed at something, they take away lessons and keep moving forward.
Here are some examples:
Fixed Mindset
I’m not good at socializing with people.
Growth Mindset
Socializing with people can be challenging, but I know I can improve.
Fixed Mindset
My business is already thriving, so I don’t need to do anything else.
Growth Mindset
There’s always room for improvement, and my business will thrive the more I put into it.
Fixed Mindset
When people give me feedback, it feels like criticism.
Growth Mindset
I appreciate when people care enough to give me feedback because it helps me learn and improve.
If you’re struggling with a fixed or negative mindset, there’s fantastic news – you can transform into a positive, growth mindset!
Change the story you tell yourself
Look at setbacks as growth opportunities
Practice grace with yourself (change doesn’t happen overnight)
Look for the good
If you have any questions, please let me know. I answer my emails, with no strings attached. I’m here to help!
Sending everyone happy and healthy vibes,
Laura
