3 Strategies To Shift A Fixed Mindset To A Growth Mindset

People use self-conceptions (or mindsets) to structure themself and guide their behavior. Carol Dweck identified two mindsets: a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. In a fixed mindset, people believe attributes, such as talent and intelligence, are fixed. A growth mindset is based on the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts. Most of us have a fixed mindset in some areas and a growth mindset in others. Working on shifting the areas from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset will help you to live to your full potential.  

Strategy #1: Shift your self talk

Instead of telling yourself,

• I am not good at this
• I can’t do this
• I will never learn this
• It’s better to stick to what I know
• I give up because it’s beyond me
• This is frustrating
• I am who I am, there is nothing I can change
• This is hard

Choose to say,

• I can do better
• I can do this
• I want to try and not give up
• I want to explore new ideas
• I believe in myself
• It’s only possible if I try
• It’s ok to fail
• I can learn from my mistakes
• I just don’t know yet

Strategy #2: Set Small Process Goals

Set small process goals instead of focusing on the overall outcome. If you want to lose 20lbs, then commit to healthy eating every day. Focusing on the process as opposed to the outcome helps you to be successful. The brain loves successes and you will be more motivated and consistent in reaching your end goal.

Strategy #3: Failures are Learning Opportunities

Look at failures as a means to learn and grow instead of considering them as a limitation of your abilities. Take a step back and identify where you could make a change. Think of what you could do differently next time.