Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset
To start, let me define these terms in a simple way:
Growth Mindset: The ability to introspect, learn, and adapt in any situation, leading to personal success.
Fixed Mindset: The opposite, where one adopts a “this is how it works here” mentality, leaving little room for introspection, learning, and adaptation.
People often fall into the fixed mindset trap without realising it, which can be detrimental. Those who consistently demonstrate a #growth mindset tend to excel in their careers. Maintaining this approach during both good and bad times is equally challenging.
Success, as they say, can be a poor teacher. People with a growth mindset don’t get carried away by #success. They identify the reasons behind their achievements and find areas for improvement, even during good times. This allows them to continually enhance their skills and performance.
Failures can be very hard-hitting, making it difficult for people to cope. In such times, those with a growth mindset, after dealing with the initial disappointment, introspect and identify what worked, what didn’t, and derive valuable lessons. They remain humble, willing to learn, and see failures as opportunities for growth. They bounce back quickly with self-belief and confidence, viewing setbacks as temporary.
In any career, both kinds of situations are inevitable. Having a mindset geared towards learning and growth is a key differentiator for career advancement.
So, how easy is it to build this kind of mindset? And what should one do to develop a growth mindset?
Here are some tips based on my learnings:
- Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Ask yourself, “Am I learning anything new?” If the answer is ‘No,’ then you’re stuck in routine. Break the mould and invest time in your own learning.
- Build Strong Personal Resilience: Ask yourself, “How do I react in difficult circumstances?” If you get angry or scared, there’s work to do. Techniques like mindfulness, introspection, and deep breathing can help manage your emotions better, leading to improved outcomes.
- Be Vulnerable: Ask yourself, “Am I being a perfectionist and putting too much pressure on myself?” If ‘Yes,’ you’re creating a high-pressure environment. Be real, ask for help, and acknowledge your limitations. This fosters genuine dialogues and relationships, aiding your growth.
- Be a Good Listener: Ask yourself, “Can I patiently hear others without getting distracted?” If ‘No,’ you’re missing out on valuable insights. By giving full attention and understanding others’ feelings, you can learn a lot, which will aid in your growth journey.
- Be Coachable: Ask yourself, “Am I a smart aleck in the room?” If ‘Yes,’ know that smart alecks are not coachable. Being open to hearing what you don’t want to hear and seeing what you don’t want to see is essential for improvement and growth.
By adopting these practices, you can develop a growth mindset that will significantly enhance your personal and professional life.
