Have you heard about mindset? I am a fan of Carol Dweck’s work on Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.
The dictionary would define “mindset” as "an established set of attitudes held by someone". It turns out, however, that a set of attitudes needn't be so set, according to Dweck. She proposes that everyone has either a fixed mindset or a growth mindset. A fixed mindset is one in which you view your talents and abilities as fixed. In other words, you are who you are, your intelligence and talents are fixed, and your fate is to go through life avoiding challenge and failure. A growth mindset, on the other hand, is one in which you see yourself as fluid, a work in progress. Your fate is one of growth and opportunity. Folks with a growth mindset believe that your basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This belief creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for growth.
Which mindset do you possess? The good news, says Dweck, is that mindsets are not set: at any time, you can learn to use a growth mindset to achieve success and happiness. This is a practical book that gives examples for teachers and parents. Dweck's overall assertion that rigid thinking benefits no one, least of all yourself, and that a change of mind is always possible, is welcome.
If you would like to read more about mindset, you can read this great article.
