From a Fixed to a Growth Mindset

In a previous article, we explored the differences between fixed and growth mindsets, noting that a growth mindset is characterised by persistence, focus on development, and openness to new solutions. Below are several guidelines for cultivating a growth-oriented mindset.

Act “as if”

Acting “as if I can” or “as if I already am” is a powerful motivational technique. It involves imagining future success—how it would feel, who you would share it with, what you would do. More broadly, it includes behaving as the person you want to become: more optimistic, open, and flexible.

A helpful question is: “What would I do if I were braver?”

Reward small wins

When acquiring new skills, it is important to set small goals and reward yourself upon achieving them. Breaking larger goals into manageable steps allows us to track progress and maintain motivation. Rewards can be simple—a piece of chocolate, socialising after work, or self-recognition for effort and achievement.

See challenges as opportunities

New ways of working, promotions, and change may be exciting but also highlight areas where we are less skilled. Viewing these situations as opportunities for growth allows us to learn and develop, even when we lack experience at first.

Accept failure

Accepting mistakes—our own and others’—is fundamental to a growth mindset. It allows room for imperfection and shifts focus from errors to solutions and strengths that support future success.

Step outside your comfort zone

Growth requires actively seeking opportunities beyond comfort zones. While comfort offers ease and satisfaction, it can also lead to stagnation. Growth begins with one new activity—perhaps even this week.

A growth mindset is not something we either have or don’t have. Each of us may be more growth-oriented in some areas and more fixed in others. With practice, we can move from “I can’t” to “I’ll try” and eventually “I can and I will.”

If you’d like to learn more, contact us at prava.formula@pravaformula.hr.

 

Sources

Beere, J. (2019). The Growth Mindset Edge: Your Guide to Developing Grit. Simon and Schuster.

Dweck, C. (2016). What having a “growth mindset” actually means. Harvard Business Review, 13, 213-226.

Dweck, C. (2015). Carol Dweck revisits the growth mindset. Education Week, 35(5), 20-24.

Ng, B. (2018). The neuroscience of growth mindset and intrinsic motivation. Brain sciences, 8(2), 20. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci8020020