Developing A Growth Mindset

Psychologist Carol Dweck created the idea of two opposing mindsets, the fixed mindset and a growth mindset. An individual’s mindset is formed early in life but is completely possible to be changed and developed.

A fixed mindset assumes that our character, intelligence, and creative ability are static and that we cannot change them in any meaningful way. It further assumes that success is the affirmation of that existing intelligence and an assessment of how those abilities measure up against an equally fixed standard. Those with a fixed mindset strive for success and avoid failure at all costs as a way of maintaining the sense of being smart or skilled.

On the other hand, a growth mindset thrives on challenge and sees failure not as evidence of unintelligence but as a heartening springboard for growth and for enhancing our existing abilities. A growth mindset is applicable to many settings – personal relationships, work, school, sports, and so on. The benefits of this mindset are that the internal monologue is not one of judgment but one of an appetite for learning, constantly seeking out the kind of input that can blossom into learning and constructive action. As one works to develop their growth mindset, they tend to reach higher levels of happiness and greater achievement.

To learn more and find 15 ways to build a growth mindset, read this article from Psychology Today.