Fixed Mindset and Growth Mindset: How your attitude changes your life
Fixed mindset vs. Growth Mindset: How your attitude changes your life
The basics of mindset
Have you ever had the feeling that you’re just not cut out for certain things? Maybe you’ve said to yourself: “I’m just not good at math” or “Creativity doesn’t suit me”.
These thoughts could be signs of a so-called “fixed mindset” – an entrenched pattern of thinking. In contrast, there is the “Growth Mindset”, which is based on the belief that skills and talents can be developed through effort and learning. These concepts were researched and coined by psychologist Carol Dweck from Stanford University. Let’s find out together how these perspectives emerge and how you can develop a Growth Mindset to realize your full potential.
How do our beliefs come about?
Our beliefs about ourselves and the world are often formed in childhood. Parents, teachers and friends play a central role in this. For example, if you were praised for good grades (“You’re so clever!”), you might develop the idea that intelligence is innate and unchangeable. If, on the other hand, you were praised for your effort (“You tried really hard, well done!”), you may have internalized the belief that success depends on commitment and perseverance. These messages shape your basic attitude – your mindset – and influence how you perceive challenges.
The concept of fixed vs. Growth Mindset Carol Dweck describes two basic thought patterns in her research:
Fixed mindset: People with a fixed mindset believe that their talents and abilities are static. They avoid challenges in order to avoid mistakes and feel threatened by the success of others.
Growth Mindset: People with a Growth Mindset are convinced that they can develop through effort and learning. They see challenges as an opportunity to grow and are open to criticism and feedback.
This knowledge opens the door to change. Because: Your mindset is malleable!
We explain it to you at eLearning in an understandable and comprehensive way.
Curiosity as a child – and how we lost it
Do you remember the time when you were a child and asked questions tirelessly? “Why is the sky blue?”, “How do airplanes work?” – This curiosity is a natural expression of a Growth Mindset. Unfortunately, however, this curiosity is often dampened by social pressure, performance evaluation and fear of making mistakes. The good news is that you can rediscover this childlike curiosity by asking questions more consciously, researching and trying out new things.
How to develop your Growth Mindset Developing a Growth Mindset is a journey. Here are some steps that can help you:
Question beliefs: Make a note of beliefs that limit you (“I am not creative”). Ask yourself: Where does this thought come from? Is it really true?
Embrace mistakes: See mistakes as a learning opportunity. What can you take away from them?
Encourage curiosity: Learn something new, try out a hobby or read a book about an unfamiliar topic.
Adapt self-talk: Replace negative self-talk with encouraging words (“I can’t do it yet, but I can learn”).
Reflecting on and changing beliefs
It takes time and practice to change deeply rooted beliefs. Start by reflecting regularly. Ask yourself: How do I react to challenges? What do I think about success and failure? Write down your thoughts and find ways to reinterpret them positively.
Bonus: Growth Mindset as a Leader
As a Leader, Growth Mindset can not only promote your own development, but also that of your team. Create a culture where learning and experimentation are valued. Encourage feedback and praise effort and progress, not just results. By reflecting on and developing your own mindset, you become a role model for others.
Conclusion
Your mindset determines how you tackle challenges, deal with setbacks and achieve your goals. The good news is that you can change it at any time. By developing a Growth Mindset, you open yourself up to a life of learning, growth and self-development. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today!
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