There are two opposing mindsets which can be adopted in our approach to life;
- A growth mindset
- A fixed mindset.
The significant differences between a growth mindset and fixed mindset can be highlighted in a simple table:
| Fixed Mindset | Growth Mindset | |
|---|---|---|
| Approach to challenges | Avoid challenges | Embrace challenges |
| Approach to obstacles | View barriers as impossible to overcome | View barriers as opportunities to persist |
| Approach to effort | View effort as unproductive or useless | View effort as the path to development and mastery |
| Response to criticism | Ignore useful negative feedback | Consider and learn from negative feedback |
| Response to success of others | Feel threat from others' success | Find lessons and inspiration from others' success |
| Result | May cause individuals to plateau and fall short of their full potential | May help individuals reach higher levels of achievement |
| Outcome | Deterministic view of the world | Greater sense of free will |
Despite growth and fixed mindsets being polar opposites, the concept is not binary and most individuals sit on a spectrum somewhere between the two extremes. A common misconception of a growth mindset is that they automatically lead to positive results and all individuals have unlimited potential. However, a growth mindset increases the likelihood of positive results when coupled with working towards a goal. The adoption of a growth mindset allows individuals to recognise that their innate abilities may prevent unlimited potential, however, they are able to understand that their capacity for achievement is not determined solely by their genetic makeup.
No matter where on the spectrum you currently sit, there are always actions which can be taken to develop more of a growth mindset. These include:
- Identifying challenges as opportunities
- Reflecting on failures, identifying them as lessons and acting to turn them to future success
- Focus on learning and growing rather than seeking the approval of others
- Celebrate and learn from the success of others
- Don’t place limitations on yourself
Your perception of what is attainable is shaped by your mindset. Through the adoption of a growth mindset you are able to set yourself up for success and greater progress.