Today we’re going to dive into one of the most fascinating subjects in psychology: Mindsets! Do you ever wonder why some people seem to have it all, while others struggle just to get by? The answer lies in their mindset. Let’s explore two distinct ways of thinking: Growth Mindset and Fixed Mindset.
Growth and Fixed Mindsets
A growth mindset is an idea that our abilities and intelligence can be developed and improved through dedication and hard work. Those with a growth mindset believe that intelligence and skills can be cultivated, leading to a desire to learn and improve. In contrast, a fixed mindset is the belief that our abilities and intelligence are set in stone, predetermined by genetics or natural talent. Those with a fixed mindset often avoid challenges and may give up easily when faced with obstacles.
Major Differences Between Them
In a fixed mindset, individuals believe that their abilities and traits are fixed, predetermined and unchangeable, leading them to avoid challenges and potential failures.
On the other hand, individuals with a growth mindset believe that they can develop and improve their abilities through hard work, learning, and perseverance, leading them to embrace challenges and see them as opportunities for growth. Fixed mindset individuals tend to give up easily and avoid learning, whereas growth mindset individuals are willing to face challenges and strive for continuous improvement.
Effects of Each Mindset on Your Life
Having a fixed mindset can limit your personal and professional growth as it suggests that your attributes are predetermined and unchangeable. You believe that your intelligence, talents, and abilities are fixed and cannot be developed, which can lead to a fear of failure and reluctance to take on new challenges.
On the other hand, having a growth mindset opens up a world of possibilities as you believe that your intelligence, talents, and abilities can be developed through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. This mindset allows for a love of learning and a desire to embrace challenges, leading to greater personal and professional growth.
Those with a growth mindset are more likely to take on new challenges and persist through difficult times, ultimately leading to greater success in their personal and professional lives. In contrast, those with a fixed mindset may shy away from challenges and give up quickly, limiting their potential for growth and success.
How to Identify Your Own Dominant Mindset and How to Shift It?
Before you can shift your mindset, you need to identify which one you currently have. The fixed mindset is characterised by a belief that intelligence and abilities are innate and cannot be changed. On the other hand, the growth mindset is based on the concept that skills and talents can be developed through hard work and dedication.
To determine which mindset you possess, look at how you approach challenges. Do you shy away from difficult tasks, believing you simply aren’t capable? That’s a sign of a fixed mindset. If you view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, you likely have a growth mindset.
If you realise you have a fixed mindset, don’t worry – you can learn to adopt a growth mindset. One way to begin shifting your mindset is to reframe your self-talk. Rather than saying “I can’t do this,” try saying “I haven’t figured it out yet, but with effort and persistence, I will.” Surrounding yourself with people who have a growth mindset can also be helpful.
Ultimately, changing your mindset requires conscious effort and a willingness to embrace new ideas and ways of thinking. With time and dedication, anyone can develop a growth mindset and achieve greater personal and professional success.
Have you ever experienced a shift in mindset from a fixed to a growth mindset, and if so, what were the changes you noticed in your personal and professional life?
Let me know in the comments!
Anwesha RC 
Great post! I came across the growth/fixed mindset theory a few months ago and I have to say it really resonates with me. I also realised that I think I have a fixed mindset, but I also shy away from going outside of my comfort zone, so in the end it is pretty much like having a fixed mindset ahah! Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you! I’m glad you found the post relatable. The concept of a growth versus fixed mindset can be quite insightful. It’s interesting that you’ve recognized elements of both mindsets in yourself, particularly when it comes to stepping outside of your comfort zone. Awareness is the first step towards growth, and by acknowledging this, you can start making conscious efforts to embrace a growth mindset and push your boundaries. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Juliette! 🙂
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