What is a growth mindset and why is it so important?

Growth Mindset is a pretty buzzy term these days. It seems like it’s being discussed everywhere! In books and on podcasts, at schools, boardrooms, start-ups, and gyms. Growth mindset definitely appears to be having a moment.

But what exactly is a growth mindset? And why is it so important?

The concept of a growth mindset was developed by Dr. Carol Dweck, a psychologist, and author of the book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.

According to Dr. Dweck, “In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.”

Dr. Carol S. Dweck, "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success"

In order to truly understand a growth mindset, it’s important to understand what it isn’t.

The opposite of a growth mindset is a fixed mindset. 

Dr. Dweck states that, “In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them. They also believe that talent alone creates success—without effort.” 

Dr. Carol S. Dweck, "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success"

To get super simple, a GROWTH MINDSET is the belief that our abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. A FIXED MINDSET, on the other hand, is the belief that no amount of effort and work will change our abilities.

How do you tend to view your unique traits, challenges, mistakes, and accomplishments?

And when was the last time you experienced an unexpected challenge? How did you respond?

How you answer these questions is your first clue as to whether you're operating with a growth or fixed mindset.

Do you embrace new challenges?

Do you enjoy learning new skills?

Are you willing to learn from your mistakes while being kind to yourself?

Are you willing to put consistent effort and hard work into areas of your life that you consider important?

If you’ve answered yes to the above, you likely practice a growth mindset.

On the other hand…

Do you often shy away from challenges?

Do you let worry of embarrassment hold you back?

Are you afraid of failure?

Do you avoid mistakes at all costs?

If so, you likely have a fixed mindset.

What is your mindset? Growth or fixed?

Dr. Dweck and her colleagues have spent years researching beliefs around achievement and failure. Throughout their research, they observed that when faced with a big disappointment or setback, some people bounced back quickly while others were devastated and experienced an extreme drop in confidence. The former group fell into the category which later became known as ‘growth mindset’ while the latter group became known as the ‘fixed mindset’ group.

When people believe they can improve their skills and intelligence, they understand the need to practice and demonstrate effort. This also holds true for athletic pursuits, artistic endeavors, and any other skill a person is interested in developing.

Dr. Dweck’s research demonstrates that people who have a growth mindset believe that they have the ability to improve. They trust that they have all of the internal resources that they need in order to learn, become smarter, and develop new skills. They understand that the more effort and consistent practice they put in will likely result in gaining new skills and seeing improvement.

When these individuals make mistakes or fail, they understand that this is simply part of the learning process. They pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and get back to facing more challenges. When they get confused and overwhelmed, they reach out for support and ask questions for clarification.

Their belief in themselves is abundant. They have a growth mindset..

On the other hand, people who have a fixed mindset tend to learn less than they are capable of learning. They avoid challenges. Their fear that they don’t “have what it takes”, won’t perform well, and might embarrass themselves keeps them stuck and their options limited.

When these same people make mistakes or fail, they have a really hard time bouncing back. Their belief is that they are simply bad at a specific task and that they have no way of improving. They allow their insecurities and fear of being judged to keep them from seeking support and facing challenges head on. 

Their belief in themselves is limited. They have a fixed mindset. 

I’m a fan of examples so let’s dive into some!

Examples of Growth & Fixed Mindset:

"Knitting is a lot harder than I thought it would be. But I know I'll get better if I keep practicing." - Growth Mindset

“I am terrible with money. I just don't have the discipline for it and can’t stick to a budget to save my life." - Fixed Mindset

“I’m so bad at tennis right now. But I know I’ll get better if I work hard.” - Growth Mindset

“What's the point of exercising? I mean, I know it’s supposed to be good for me but I don't have the time or energy to make it to the gym." - Fixed Mindset

Here’s a question to consider. Are we born with our mindset?

And if the answer is yes and we’re born with a FIXED mindset, does this mean we’re doomed to a life full of limitations?

There is no doubt that genetics, biochemistry, environment, and other circumstances beyond our control play a significant role in how we perceive the world around us! For sure! But there is still A LOT we can do ourselves that can help us improve the quality of our thoughts and the strength of our minds. 

Now, back to Dr. Dweck and her team. Their research shows that our brains are WAY more adaptable than we used to think. The latest research in neuroscience backs up their claims. Ongoing research on brain plasticity shows that neuron connectivity has the ability to change. Lasting change occurs when we practice something consistently. Neural networks actually grow new connections and strengthen existing connections as a result of our consistent practice. 

These remarkable scientific discoveries demonstrate that we’re able to increase neural growth which actually alters the way that we think. Our brains literally have the ability to grow stronger with consistent effort! Amazing!

When we challenge ourselves, practice new skills consistently, use positive affirmations, ask questions when we need clarification, and reach out for support, we’re strengthening our brains. These are all ways that we can develop a growth mindset.

We truly have an incredible amount of control over whether we have a fixed or a growth mindset.

I've created a list of 10 practices that help me develop a growth mindset on a regular basis. These are things that I do regularly that have helped me, (and continue to help me!)

If you’re curious and want to learn more about these practices, check out my post, 10 Simple and Fun Tips to Build a Growth Mindset. I hope you find some tips that work for you.

Here’s to strengthening our brains and developing a growth mindset!

Eager to develop your own growth mindset? Let’s connect for a complimentary 20-minute consultation and see if coaching is right for you. There’s never any pressure or obligation, just a great way for us to connect!

Click here to schedule your coaching consultation call today!