What Is Your Mindset? Defining Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset
As humans, we fit into one of two major mindsets, the growth mindset, or the fixed mindset. First introduced by psychologist Carol Dweck, these two mindsets provide insights into how we view ourselves, how we view success, and our overall well-being. Understanding where we fall within these mindsets can help us understand how we take on challenges and how we view our learning potential. Let’s explore these two mindsets and how one can adopt a growth mindset.
Fixed Mindset
A fixed mindset is defined as believing that intelligence and one’s abilities are fixed traits and are unchangeable. People with a fixed mindset believe that their skills are set and unable to be developed or transformed over time. They also believe that they have a certain amount of intelligence and that they never want to look “stupid” or “dumb.” This mindset can lead to the reluctance to take on new challenges due to the fear of failure or limitation.
A fixed mindset can be identified by a few key characteristics including the avoidance of challenges, ignoring constructive criticism, and feeling upstaged or threatened by another’s success.
Growth Mindset
A growth mindset on the other hand is when an individual believes that their intelligence and abilities can evolve and develop over time through education, having an open mind, and hard work. These individuals love to learn and may define themselves as “lifelong learners.” They are also resilient and know that failure is sometimes a reality but does not let it set them back.
Individuals with a growth mindset have a few key characteristics including being open to constructive criticism, finding inspiration and happiness in the success of others, and thriving off of challenges.
The Benefits Of A Growth Mindset
The mindset we have influences how we live our day to day lives and how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. Having a fixed mindset can stop growth and learning causing someone to live a life restricted by the fear of failure. A growth mindset can leave one open to change and learning and in turn, lead to a greater and more fulfilling life.
With a growth mindset, a person may have increased motivation and academic performance. This can lead to higher academic achievement including higher grades in mathematics, languages, and science. For those in their careers, a growth mindset leads to an openness to feedback which can lead to improvement and career advancement. Additional benefits include a reduction in burnout, fewer behavioral problems, increased focus, healthier personal relationships and conflict resolution, and a decrease in depression and anxiety.
Can A Person Change Their Mindset?
As humans, we can change over time, so it is no surprise that our mindset can also change. Neuroscience shows that the brain continues to evolve and change throughout adulthood. New pathways can be formed, which suggests that even a person with a fixed mindset can develop a growth mindset.
How To Develop A Growth Mindset
Changing your mindset requires discipline and conscious effort, but it can be achieved. Here are some tips to help you change from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset.
Understand and believe that you can change
The best way to change your mindset is to understand that our brains are designed to grow and learn. Challenge yourself with new and unique experiences that allow you to “rewire” your brain. View these as opportunities to learn and be okay with being uncomfortable as you learn a new skill.
Start ignoring the “fixed mindset” inner voice
In the beginning especially, many people may have an inner voice that works against the growth mindset they are trying to achieve. Work to change thoughts such as “I’m going to fail at this” to “I’m going to work hard at this task and if it doesn’t go completely correct, that’s okay. I’ll learn from my mistakes!”
Be open to constructive feedback
Learn to embrace feedback, whether it is positive or constructive. Remember that any criticism is not a reflection of your worth. Use the feedback to improve yourself and learn for the next time.
Let others inspire you
Instead of viewing others’ successes as threats, use them as inspiration. Ask questions about how they achieved their accomplishments and use those lessons to guide you in your life.
Trust the process
Change is difficult and as humans we are often reluctant or resistant towards change. However, trust that the work you are putting in to change your mindset is going to benefit you in the long run. Reward yourself during the process and celebrate milestones, no matter how small or large they are.
Both growth and fixed mindsets each have their own behaviors and beliefs. A growth mindset is going to allow an individual to be more open to change, learn new skills (no matter their age), and achieve greater success. Adopting this mindset can lead to a more fulfilling life, one that embraces change and growth at all stages of life.
