What is A Fixed Mindset?  How to Shift to A Growth Mindset

What do you think, do you fall into the fixed mindset category or growth mindset? 

Over the past several months having researched this topic, I came to the realization that for most of my adult life my mindset has been fixed which was quite surprising to me.  For example, in the past, I didn’t believe I could learn anything new, and I lacked confidence in myself.  In addition, I felt my abilities/skills were at their peak, and nothing I could do would change that.  More often than not, I viewed change or trying something new as an obstacle that I was certain I could not overcome.  Often, I would give up easily when I couldn’t figure things out. 

 

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What Changed

Shortly after beginning my blogging adventure, I came to realize relatively quickly that this fixed mindset of mine was not benefiting my personal or professional life.  After doing some research, I made the conscious decision to start making changes in order to nurture a growth mindset.   Consequently, this required changing the narrative in my own head and putting in the work every day to develop a growth mindset.

 

Admittedly, I still have some fixed mindset characteristics, however, I realize that developing a growth mindset takes time and patience.  Beginning the process of journaling and habit tracking in the past couple of months has also proven quite beneficial.  For example, having this journal to refer back to and check my progress provides me with concrete evidence that I am on the right path in my journey.  On the other hand, habit tracking, and journaling also demonstrates areas where I need to improve. 

 

What Is a Fixed Mindset Exactly?

According to WebMD, a fixed mindset “is the belief that your intelligence is something you’re born with, and you can’t do much to change it.”  

Characteristics Of a Fixed Mindset

. Focusing on the outcome rather than the steps it will take you to achieve the outcome. 

. Shying away from challenge because you are afraid of failure.

. Ultimately relying on the approval of others

. Refusing help from others

. Believing you need to be a master at something before you even get started

Characteristics Of a Growth Mindset

. Viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow

. Learn to give and receive constructive criticism

. Looking at failure as a learning experience

. Don’t give up when things get difficult

As a matter of fact, one area which I’m currently working on is not focusing on the outcome but putting my attention on the steps I need to take to get there. 

 

 

How To Develop a Growth Mindset

First and foremost, only you can make the necessary changes to shift your mindset.  No one can do it for you, however, there are many coaches available who can guide you, but ultimately have to do the work. 

How To Shift Away from A Fixed Mindset

. Take time to reflect on past failures and embrace them.  Acknowledge your weaknesses and embrace learning how to overcome them. 

. Find your purpose and pursue it.  What is important to you?  For me, volunteering has helped immensely as far as developing a growth mindset.

. Face challenges head-on with a can-do attitude.  Cast all fears of making a mistake aside.  Inspire yourself and those around you through the use of positive thinking.

. Accept any and all feedback.  While feedback may not always be positive, view it as a way to improve.

. Remember to be patient with the process of learning.  Everyone learns differently.

. Enjoy the journey of developing a growth mindset.  Don’t be focused on the end result.  See the value in learning along the way.

In short, developing a growth mindset is not something that will happen overnight so be patient with yourself as well as the process.  Most importantly, remember this journey to a growth mindset requires commitment and work on your part.  In the long run, you will gain confidence, and motivation, and find more balance in your life. 

 

 

Finally, I will leave you with this positive affirmation taken from my monthly wellness planner:

“I am not afraid of what could go wrong, I am excited about what could go right.”

Be well…

 

 

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