FIXED MINSET: A fixed mindset means that we assume our character, intelligence, and ability are static and pre-determined at birth. It's the understanding that we are born with a certain IQ and certain natural talents, and there is a cap to the amount we can alter our intelligence or talents. Somebody with a fixed mindset strives for success based on inherent talents, which is a testament to what they can achieve, and they tend to avoid risky challenges in fear of failure, which is a reminder of that which they are simply not capable.
GROWTH MINDSET: Somebody with a growth mindset understands that our brains are exceptionally malleable. Yes, we are born with a certain IQ and certain natural talents, but it is possible through hard work to achieve things far beyond that which we could imagine. Somebody with a growth mindset welcomes challenges as a way to learn more and strengthen the brain. A person’s true potential is unknowable; it is impossible to predict what we could accomplish.
In reality, every human quality, ranging from intelligence to creativity to our ability to make friends can be cultivated through effort and practice. The number one trait of all very successful people is not talent but the perseverance and grit which comes as a result of a growth mindset.
GROWTH MINDSET: Somebody with a growth mindset understands that our brains are exceptionally malleable. Yes, we are born with a certain IQ and certain natural talents, but it is possible through hard work to achieve things far beyond that which we could imagine. Somebody with a growth mindset welcomes challenges as a way to learn more and strengthen the brain. A person’s true potential is unknowable; it is impossible to predict what we could accomplish.
In reality, every human quality, ranging from intelligence to creativity to our ability to make friends can be cultivated through effort and practice. The number one trait of all very successful people is not talent but the perseverance and grit which comes as a result of a growth mindset.
Sometimes the smartest people can struggle the most with the idea of a growth mindset. Somebody who is naturally quite intelligent smart has heard often how talented and brilliant they are; this can manifest itself in a fear of not living up to the expectations and as a result shying away from failure.
In one world, failure is a setback; it means that you are not growing and not fulfilling your potential. Effort is negative, as it means that you’re not smart or talented enough to have success come easily to you. In the other world, effort is what makes you smart and talented. Success comes with the process of becoming smart, and difficulty is not a reflection of your poor intelligence.
Your mindset is decided from a very early age as a result of your teachers, parents, and challenges. That being said, a growth mindset can be cultivated and developed through practice. Here are a few steps you can take:
Replace “failing” with “learning” - Let’s say you practice for hours each day and put in your hardest effort only to get rejected from a school or bomb a performance. Yes, this is devastating. But at the same time, you can change your mindset to realize that you just achieved a whole new skill level. You put in a lot of work, tried your hardest, and improved your playing (even if it doesn’t feel that way).
Value the process over the result - Along those lines, realize that it’s not all about the result. In the long run, the work you put in is what will stick with you and serve you through the years.
Identify your purpose and meaning - Those with a growth mindset also tend to have a greater sense of purpose. When you realize what gives your life meaning, you are willing to face challenges to continue doing what you love.
Prioritize growth over speed - It’s not about how fast you can get something done. In real life, is success decided by how fast you can finish a test, or even how quickly you can learn a new piece? Speed can help, certainly, but learning something truly well sometimes requires enough time to make mistakes and work through challenges.
Treat the brain like your bicep - The brain is a muscle. It needs to be worked out and developed just like the rest of your body.
Make new goals for each goal that is accomplished - A truly successful person never stops learning. There is always an opportunity to expand the mind and keep yourself stimulated.
In one world, failure is a setback; it means that you are not growing and not fulfilling your potential. Effort is negative, as it means that you’re not smart or talented enough to have success come easily to you. In the other world, effort is what makes you smart and talented. Success comes with the process of becoming smart, and difficulty is not a reflection of your poor intelligence.
Your mindset is decided from a very early age as a result of your teachers, parents, and challenges. That being said, a growth mindset can be cultivated and developed through practice. Here are a few steps you can take:
Replace “failing” with “learning” - Let’s say you practice for hours each day and put in your hardest effort only to get rejected from a school or bomb a performance. Yes, this is devastating. But at the same time, you can change your mindset to realize that you just achieved a whole new skill level. You put in a lot of work, tried your hardest, and improved your playing (even if it doesn’t feel that way).
Value the process over the result - Along those lines, realize that it’s not all about the result. In the long run, the work you put in is what will stick with you and serve you through the years.
Identify your purpose and meaning - Those with a growth mindset also tend to have a greater sense of purpose. When you realize what gives your life meaning, you are willing to face challenges to continue doing what you love.
Prioritize growth over speed - It’s not about how fast you can get something done. In real life, is success decided by how fast you can finish a test, or even how quickly you can learn a new piece? Speed can help, certainly, but learning something truly well sometimes requires enough time to make mistakes and work through challenges.
Treat the brain like your bicep - The brain is a muscle. It needs to be worked out and developed just like the rest of your body.
Make new goals for each goal that is accomplished - A truly successful person never stops learning. There is always an opportunity to expand the mind and keep yourself stimulated.