A growth mindset and a fixed mindset are two different ways people think about their abilities and learning. Let me explain them using examples.
Meaning of Growth Mindset
People with a growth mindset believe that they can improve their skills and abilities through effort and learning. They think that with practice and hard work, they can get better at almost anything toward their self-improvement in life.
Example
Imagine you’re not very good at playing the guitar, but you want to learn. If you have a growth mindset, you’ll believe that with practice and learning from mistakes, you can become a better guitar player over time.
Meaning of Fixed Mindset
People with a fixed mindset believe that their abilities and talents are fixed like they can’t change much. They think they’re born with certain skills, and there’s not much they can do to change them.
Example
Suppose you’re not good at math, and you think you’ll never be good at it because you’re just not a “math person.” That’s a fixed mindset because you’re not open to the idea that you can improve your math skills with practice and learning.
A growth mindset is about believing in your ability to grow and improve through effort and learning. A fixed mindset is when you believe your abilities are set and can’t change much. It’s essential to have a growth mindset because it encourages you to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and keep getting better at whatever you want to do.
Detailed Comparison of Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset
People with a growth mindset believe they can improve through effort, embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and value hard work.
While those with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are fixed, avoid challenges, fear mistakes, and may not put in much effort.
| Aspect | Growth Mindset | Fixed Mindset |
|---|---|---|
| Belief | Believes abilities can improve with effort and learning. | Believes abilities are fixed and cannot change much. |
| Challenges | Embraces challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. | Avoids challenges to stay in their comfort zone. |
| Effort | Values hard work and sees it as a path to improvement. | May give up easily because they believe it won’t make a difference. |
| Mistakes | Views mistakes as a chance to learn and improve. | Fears mistakes and sees them as failures. |
| Feedback | Welcomes feedback and criticism as a way to get better. | May become defensive or ignore feedback because it feels like a personal attack. |
| Success of others | Gets inspired by others’ success and sees it as an example to follow. | Feels threatened by others’ success and may become envious or discouraged. |
| Learning | Enjoys the process of learning and exploring new things. | Prefers sticking to what they already know and are comfortable with. |
| Persistence | Keeps trying even when faced with setbacks or difficulties. | Gives up quickly when faced with obstacles. |
| Outcome | Believes that effort and learning lead to personal growth and success. | Believes that talent alone determines success, and effort doesn’t matter much. |
20 Examples of a Growth Mindset
- I can learn new things with practice and effort.
- I believe I can improve my math skills if I study more.
- Mistakes help me learn, so I’m not afraid to make them.
- I enjoy trying new challenges because they make me better.
- When I don’t understand something, I ask questions to learn more.
- Feedback from others helps me get better at what I do.
- I believe hard work can lead to success.
- I see failures as opportunities to grow and try again.
- Even if I’m not good at something now, I can get better over time.
- I admire people who work hard and keep learning.
- Learning from my experiences is important to me.
- I like to set goals for myself and work towards them.
- I’m not discouraged by setbacks; I see them as part of the journey.
- I enjoy challenges because they make life more interesting.
- I know that getting better at something takes time and effort.
- When I see others succeed, it motivates me to try harder.
- I believe in my ability to improve and achieve my goals.
- I’m open to trying new strategies when things don’t work out.
- I take responsibility for my own learning and growth.
- I know that my abilities can develop with practice and determination.
Photo by CATHY PHAM
FAQ about Growth Mindset
1. What is a growth mindset?
- A growth mindset is when you believe that you can get better at things through effort and learning.
- It’s about thinking that your abilities aren’t fixed and can improve over time.
- People with a growth mindset embrace challenges and learn from their mistakes.
2. How does a growth mindset differ from a fixed mindset?
- A growth mindset believes in improvement, while a fixed mindset thinks abilities are unchangeable.
- A growth mindset welcomes challenges, while a fixed mindset avoids them.
- A growth mindset sees effort as a path to success, whereas a fixed mindset might give up easily.
3. Can anyone develop a growth mindset?
- Yes, anyone can develop a growth mindset with practice and awareness.
- Start by recognizing when you have a fixed mindset and challenge those thoughts.
- Surround yourself with people who encourage growth and learning.
4. Why is it important to have a growth mindset?
- It encourages resilience and the willingness to keep trying.
- It leads to greater learning and personal development.
- People with a growth mindset often achieve more because they don’t fear failure.
5. How can I develop a growth mindset in my daily life?
- Embrace challenges and view them as opportunities to learn.
- Learn from your mistakes and see them as stepping stones to improvement.
- Believe in the power of effort and hard work to achieve your goals.
6. Can a growth mindset help me in my career?
- Yes, a growth mindset can improve your career prospects.
- It makes you more adaptable and open to new skills and experiences.
- Employers often value employees with a growth mindset because they are eager to learn and grow.
7. Can parents and teachers help children develop a growth mindset?
- Yes, parents and teachers can foster a growth mindset in children.
- Praise effort and perseverance, not just natural talent.
- Encourage them to take on challenges and teach them that mistakes are part of learning.
8. What if I face setbacks or failures with a growth mindset?
- A growth mindset helps you see setbacks as opportunities for improvement.
- You’ll be more likely to persevere and find new strategies to overcome challenges.
- Remember that even successful people face failures on their journey.
9. Can a growth mindset improve my relationships?
- Yes, it can lead to more understanding and patience in relationships.
- You’ll be open to learning and growing together with others.
- Conflict resolution becomes more constructive with a growth mindset.
10. Are there any famous examples of people with a growth mindset?
- Yes, many successful people, like A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Rajinikanth, had a growth mindset.
- They faced failures and setbacks but kept trying and learning.
- Their stories show how a growth mindset can lead to remarkable achievements.
