Growth Mindset

A client was recently talking with us about a goal she has for herself this year. The goal is a new process she’s putting into place to help her with her efficiency and productivity. While some things have gone well, she also highlighted challenges she’s had, and was wondering if she should abandon the goal altogether.

We discussed how it can be frustrating when a new process (behavior, habit, etc.), doesn’t quite go as planned. And, that it’s common to focus on what’s wrong or what’s been challenging.  

This reminded us of the research Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., has done with something that’s known as a Growth Mindset.

In her work, she discusses the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset.

Fixed Mindset:

• The belief that we are what we are. We can’t learn, grow, or change much.
• With a fixed mindset, you might say, “I’ve tried playing a new sport a couple of times but I’m no good at it so I’m quitting.”

Growth Mindset:

• The belief that we can learn, grow, and become more intelligent with time and experience.
• With a growth mindset, you might say, “I’ve tried playing a new sport a couple of times and I’m not as good as I’d like to be yet. I can see improvement though and I am excited to continue growing.”

As you can imagine, how you approach others is dramatically different if you believe that people can learn and grow with time and experience (growth mindset) versus assuming you/they can’t change or grow (fixed mindset).

Take some time this week to observe your tendencies. Do you have a growth mindset or a fixed mindset?

Consider areas of your personal and professional life, where you can invite the process of learning and growing in yourself as well as encouraging others to do the same.

Aim for progress, not perfection.

Let us know what you find!