Are you always looking for ways to improve yourself and embrace new challenges?

Or do you feel stuck in old patterns and believe there’s no way to change?

Your answer to these questions might reveal whether you have a growth or a fixed mindset. Bear with us, even if you’ve found that you currently have a fixed mindset, but wanting to improve and shift to a growth mindset, it’s possible! In the book Mindset, the researcher Carol Dweck argues about the difference between the two.

A growth mindset is a belief that you can improve your abilities through dedication and hard work. People with a growth mindset are open to new challenges and perceive failure as an opportunity to learn.

On the other hand, fixed mindset individuals believe their abilities are limited and cannot be improved. This limits their potential and prevents them from reaching their goals.

Most individuals interested in personal development have a growth mindset, believing they can change, improve and grow. Most importantly, they are willing to put in an effort to do the required work. 

Oh… but that does mean you’re guilty of having a fixed mindset? Definitely, not.

We form beliefs about our ability as early as preschool age. If you were praised for intelligence and born capacities and told as a child, “You’re so smart!” you have probably developed a fixed mindset. This happens because the child focuses on what cannot be changed instead of the possibilities for improvement and development. Instead, if your parents and teachers praised the process and effort through phrases like, “Wow! You worked really hard on this project”, or “I can clearly see that you’ve put lots of effort in delivering this project” you are more likely to have a growth mindset.

But what if you were raised in a fixed-mindset environment?

Are you doomed to fail?

Well… we wouldn’t be here if that was the case!

The good news is that you can learn it. Anyone can change the way they think and start viewing themselves as capable of growth. 

Deal?

So how can you develop a growth mindset if it doesn’t come naturally? These are some suggestions:

– Nurture radical transparency: growth mindset people are aware of their limitations, frustrations, and mistakes, but they also recognise their strengths, desires, and improvements. Don’t shy away from self-discovery.

– Learn new things. It’s hard to believe in growth if you don’t see it happening. The best way to cultivate growth is by immersing yourself in new pursuits and learning new skills. Focus on progress with a vision in mind, but don’t get too attached to the end outcome. 

– Take on new challenges. Challenging yourself is one of the best ways to develop a growth mindset. When you push your boundaries, you start seeing yourself as capable of more than you thought possible. Forming a new habit is a great example.

– Embrace failure. Failure is an inevitable part of growth – it’s how we learn and improve. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and don’t give up when things get tough. After all, failure is an essential element of the learning process and part of every successful person’s journey.

– Celebrate growth and progress. It’s important to acknowledge how much you’ve grown over the years. Take some time to celebrate your accomplishments. Throw a party (and invite us!) 

– Surround yourself with open-minded people. When you’re around like-minded individuals, it’s easier to adopt their way of thinking. Find people who support your growth and want to see you succeed. 

With Potenic, you’ll be able to create a personalised plan for consistent growth and prepare for the upcoming obstacles while celebrating your efforts with a group of like-minded people!

Potenic opens you the doors to a strong community that drives your growth journey. We offer you the resources you need to face new challenges, overcome obstacles and maintain a sense of purpose as you work towards your goals.

Don’t forget to follow us on social media, so you can stay updated on new growth-oriented resources and opportunities to challenge fixed beliefs.