Growth Mindset

What is a Growth Mindset?

In her research at Stanford University, Dr. Carol Dweck identified two different types of mindsets. Growth mindset occurs when we believe our intelligence and abilities can be improved upon with effort and the right strategies.

Characteristics associated with growth mindset include a willingness to confront challenges, viewing failure as a springboard for growth, and a passion for learning. Not surprisingly, this type of mindset is strongly linked to greater happiness and achievement in life.

Alternatively, those with a fixed mindset believe their intelligence and abilities cannot be altered in a meaningful way. As a result, mistakes are seen as failures rather than opportunities to grow and learn. When stuck in a fixed mindset, we may fear new experiences, avoid risks, and feel the need to prove ourselves over and over.

More information on this can be found here @BigLifeJournal

This diagram shows a student with a fixed mindset Vs a student with a growth mindset:

Which one are you? Which person do you think will be more successful in school?

This week have you used any fixed mindset phrases such as “I give up” or “I can’t do this”. How did you respond to this? Did you just give up? or did you try something else?.

Next time you use a fixed mindset phrase try an alternate phrase that reflect growth mindset such as “I’m not good at this yet” or "To complete this task I need to..."

THE POWER OF YET...

With one simple word, any fixed mindset phrase can be transformed into a statement of hope. “I can’t do this...yet.” It’s all about the FUTURE, and not giving up until we get there.

DAILY ROUTINES

Consider your daily routines and how your growth mindset can be easily embedded. Set aside at least several minutes each day to reflect on it.

In your family: Consider how growth mindset LOOKS, FEELS, and SOUNDS at home. Think about specific ways you help each other when you’re “stuck” and need help shifting your perspective from a fixed to a growth mindset. Does anyone in your family have an obvious growth mindset?

In school: Consider how growth mindset LOOKS, FEELS, and SOUNDS in class. How do you, your friends and teachers overcome problems? Do you know anyone who has a growth mindset? Do you know anyone who has a fixed mindset? Which of these traits are more desirable?

Noticing a growth mindset in others can help to inspire your own mindset. Whilst observing a fixed mindset in others can also motivate you to be more open to growth.

Reading List:

The Wizard of OZ by Beth Bracken

Dorothy never stopped trying to get home even when the Wicked Witch of the West sent flying monkeys after her. The book teaches that when the going gets tough, stick to your yellow brick road and you'll overcome your obstacles too.

This book features unfortunate events, but it also teaches some valuable lessons. Despite numerous misfortunes children do not give up, stay positive and come up with constructive ways of dealing with their losses.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

There was a wild crashing sound, a ripping of metal, and the plane blew through the trees, out over the water and down, down to slam into the lake . . .

Brian is a city boy. Not used to living rough. Until his plane crash-lands in the Canadian wilderness. All he has is a hatchet - and a desperate will to survive. Now Brian must learn to live the hard way - or die.

Websites and Further Reading:

Click here for the Top 75 Growth Mindset Movies