Fixed mindset vs. growth mindset
People with a fixed mindset think intelligence, character, and creative potential are unchangeable attributes that come from birth. They also assume that success is the result of this inherent talent. They tend to avoid failure to avoid looking fallible.
People with a growth mindset do not look at failure as a reflection of their ability, but rather as a starting point for testing ideas.
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We often think that we need to have talent and confidence before we can accomplish something.
In reality, talent is often overrated. It is small accomplishments that lead to confidence.
Research shows that praising a child for their intelligence can be detrimental as they face obstacles differently. Instead, praise your child for their effort.
When you believe in innate ability, then you feel you have to prove yourself over and over. Any sort of difficulty creates a desire to give up to keep your "smart" persona intact.
Talent truly matters in two ways:
- As a head start in the race to mastery. Those who are willing to work hard can still pass you by, therefore the saying: "Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard."
- In edge cases. For the best of the best, talent matters more. Talent adds that little extra that takes their hard work to the peak of performance.
The key to developing a growth mindset is to "fake it until you make it." It results in small wins, which will lead to real confidence.
Start with focusing on small wins by changing your habits. Make daily "micro quotas" such as 10 minutes of working out a day. Once your habit is established, scale it. Over time, this creates a growth mindset - a passion for learning instead of a need for approval.
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The 3 steps to encourage a change in mindset:
- Observe your mindset.
- Challenge your beliefs
- Build a “growth” muscle.
- Don’t praise ability or intelligence: That promotes a fixed mindset. Compliment effort, process and choices.
- Don’t ignore outcome, tie it to effort: You can be happy about success, but attribute it to effort.
- Respond positively to failure: Failure isn’t bad, it’s a tool for improving.
- Don’t just say “Try hard.” Set goals: Blind repetition doesn’t work.
- Practice a Growth mindset in all areas of life: There’s no area where they cannot improve with hard work.
- Share your own Growth mindset efforts: Practice it yourself and share your results.
People with a Growth Mindset believe they can grow, develop, and master whatever skills and abilities they wish in life.
They enjoy learning and overcoming challenges, working outside the comfort zone and growing.