Everyone in the world has a way of perceiving things and unique beliefs about their own abilities and potential. We call this a mindset. You have a mindset, your friends have a mindset, and your lecturers have a mindset. You can choose to look at the world in a way that makes you feel strong and happy, or in a way that makes you feel frustrated and weak. Your mindset is so powerful that it can fuel your behaviour and predict your success. Mindset shapes your everyday life, helping you to interpret your experiences and future possibilities.
Dr. Carol Dweck of Stanford University identified two different types of mindsets:
People with a fixed mindset feel as if they are stuck with the way things are. They believe their intelligence and abilities cannot be altered in a meaningful way. As a result, they see mistakes as failures rather than opportunities to grow and learn. When stuck in a fixed mindset, we may fear new experiences, avoid risks, and feel the need to repeatedly prove ourselves to others.
A fixed mindset happens to all of us at some time or another but it's important we choose to have a growth mindset, keep trying, and stick with challenges.
People with a growth mindset believe they can improve their intelligence and abilities by working hard and trying different strategies. They keep trying even when things are tough and they say things such as, “I can’t do this...yet” or “Mistakes help me learn.” A willingness to confront challenges, a passion for learning, and viewing failure as a springboard for growth are all characteristics associated with a growth mindset.
Developing a growth mindset is crucial for a successful, happy life. By putting in the effort and using the right strategies to help you get better at things, you will feel empowered and try harder. Knowing your brain is capable of growing will give you more confidence, resilience, and the ability push through the fear of failure!
How To Train Your Brain
Did you know you grow your brain when you try new things and don’t give up when something is tough? Learning something new is hardest the first time, but your brain behaves like a muscle and gets stronger every time things are repeated.
Recent developments in neuroscience have revealed that our brains are far more malleable than we ever realised. Studies on brain plasticity have proven that the connections between neurons can be altered. With training, your neural networks can grow new connections, strengthen your existing ones, and add insulation which speeds up the transmission of impulses. In other words, you can increase your neural growth with your actions - using good strategies, asking questions, practising, and following good nutrition and sleep habits.
Research has shown that it is indeed possible to change from a fixed to growth mindset, and when that happens, it leads to greater motivation and achievement.
The Power of Yet...
Quiz Time
Take the quiz below next to discover what kind of mindset you have: