Growth Mindset

The term “growth mindset” was coined by Stanford professor, Carol Dweck, in her child psychology research. In that work, she defines a growth mindset as the ability to reframe perceived failures as opportunities to learn and grow. 

How Can You Foster A Growth Mindset?

Learn to value effort

Remember that you are at Stanford to learn. You are in the process of becoming an expert in your field, and that means you won’t always get everything right. Instead of a self-critical approach in the face of failures, reframe failures and challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.

Use the word “yet”

By using the word “yet,” you focus on the future, and the ever-present potential for improvement. For example, “I don’t know how to solve this problem set yet,” “I haven’t mastered this theory yet,” or “I will do better next time.”

Practice self-compassion

Self-compassion is an effective emotional regulation strategy that involves turning the compassion you give toward others inward. The process neutralizes negative emotional patterns and engenders more positive feelings of kindness and connectedness. One way you can practice self-compassion is to talk to yourself as you would a friend, especially in moments of perceived failure and insurmountable challenges.