What is a growth mindset and how can it help you succeed?
Do you believe that brilliant people are made not born? Are you the type of person who is curious and never stops learning?
You have a growth mindset.
A growth mindset is when you understand that abilities and talents can be developed either by learning, working on your skills, practicing, and other strategies (Dr. Carol Dweck). People who think this way usually have (or are able to develop) the resilience needed to achieve greater things, no matter what age or situation in life.
Growth mindset vs. Fixed mindset, Sprouts
Traits of people with a growth mindset vs. those with a fixed mindset
People with the growth mindset:
- are curious and like to learn.
- embrace change and welcome challenges.
- are not led by fear of failure or ridicule.
- welcome constructive criticism.
- enjoy the effort involved in learning.
- are inspired by the success of others. They help motivate everyone to succeed.
People with the fixed mindset:
- think that people people have it or they don’t, meaning your genes determine if you will be successful or not.
- resist change and avoid new situations. They like taking the easy route.
- are scared of the possibility that they will fail. They care deeply about what others might think of them.
- avoid feedback and take criticism personally.
- become discouraged easily.
- feel threatened by the success of others. They perceive it as pressure to do better or achieve something as well.
Which type of mindset do you have?
Benefits of having a growth mindset
For newcomers, having a growth mindset is not only important, it’s critical. Being in a new country, we have so much to learn and catch up on as we settle. When you adopt a growth mindset, you will:
- be able to adapt faster because of your positive outlook about change and adjustment. You will also be more equipped to handle culture shock.
- achieve more because you welcome challenges and see them as adventures. You will see your persistence pay off.
- be less stressed and less prone to depression in case plans fall through.
- have more patience and kindness for yourself and others.
- have a smoother settlement process (compared to someone with a fixed mindset).
How to develop or nurture a growth mindset
Stanford psychologist and author of “Mindset: The new psychology of success” Dr. Carol Dweck, wrote that “although people may differ in every which way in their initial talents, aptitudes, interests, or temperaments, everyone can change and grow through application and experience.” Here are some tips to having a growth mindset:
- Start by believing in yourself – Take time to reflect and acknowledge all your strengths and weaknesses. Be honest about your capabilities and understand that everyone has room for improvement.
- Cultivate your curiousity – Don’t stop learning! Albert Einstein said, “once you stop learning, you start dying.”
- Allow yourself to fail – Are you so afraid to fail that you miss opportunities for growth? Learn to incorporate “yet” into your mindset. Failure only means you haven’t reached your highest potential yet, so just keep at it.
- List down your goals – Create clear realistic goals based on your passion and purpose. People who are goal-driven are more likely to improve and grow.
- Stay positive – Optimistic people are more likely to succeed because they don’t take setbacks personally. They are more confident, energetic, and resilient.
Sources: 12 advantages of a growth mindset that could accelerate your career, Bernhard Schroeder, Forbes; Growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset: An introduction, Rita Kitchen, TedEd; and How to develop a growth mindset: 10 strategies to success, Dixita, Matter. Accessed December 17, 2021.