In life, we are responsible for our development and success, no matter the area of our life. It is crucial to take charge of our growth and learning. Our mind is influenced by the role models we had as children, but it is not predetermined.
Neuroscientists have proven that our brain can create new neuropathways when we learn, allowing for limitless possibilities with a growth mindset. However, many of us make excuses for our growth and progression.
We blame our environment or others for our inability to grow or lack of opportunity. These are the people with a fixed mindset.
- They believe their abilities are predetermined and can do nothing about it.
- They tend to shy away from challenges and find it challenging to accept criticism, as it may threaten their self-worth.
On the other hand, people with a growth mindset seek development.
- They believe their abilities can be developed through hard work, dedication, and persistence.
- They understand failure is part of learning and do not shy away from challenges.
- They relish difficulties and see them as opportunities to grow and learn.
The difference between those with a fixed mindset and those with a growth mindset is that those with a fixed mindset believe their growth comes from others; they see failures as disasters, while those with a growth mindset work hard to realize their potential and see every situation as opportunities, and believe they are in charge of their success.
Nobody has to be a victim of their surroundings. We can train our brains to have a growth mindset like any other muscle. Here are several ways to help you to adopt a growth mindset:
- Reframe your self-talk and self-perception – Instead of viewing challenges, setbacks, or failures as negative experiences, try to see them as opportunities for growth and learning. When you encounter a difficult task, remind yourself that you can learn and improve and that failure is a natural part of the process. Learn to change the way you think and talk to yourselves. Instead of thinking, “I am useless,” when we fail, we can adopt a growth mindset by thinking, “Oh well! I failed this time but will try again next time and see where I can improve.”
- Seek Feedback and Criticism – Instead of avoiding criticism or defending yourself, listen to feedback with an open mind to identify areas for improvement and set goals for yourself.
- Seek Support – Seek out friends, mentors, or colleagues who support your growth and encourage you to take on challenges. By surrounding yourself with people who have a growth mindset, you’ll be more likely to adopt that mindset yourself.
- Be patient and persistent – Developing a growth mindset takes time and effort. It requires changing ingrained thought patterns and habits, but with practice and persistence, you can achieve your goals and maximize your potential.
It can be challenging to overcome a fixed mindset because we have relied on it emotionally for a long time.
However, we don’t necessarily have to abandon it altogether. It’s important to remember that developing a growth mindset takes time, and simply adopting it in a specific situation is a good start.
Even if we fail, having the confidence to get back up is the key to success.
