“It’s pointless to try; I’m not talented enough.”
“Success like that isn’t meant for someone like me.”
“I’m too old (or too young) to achieve something like that now.”
Do these sentences sound like something you have said to yourself, at any point in time? These are classic examples of a fixed mindset – the belief that our capabilities and intelligence are pre-determined and unchangeable.
Think of our mind as a sponge – it absorbs and internalizes every single thought we have. If we constantly reinforce the idea that we are limited, the mind thinks of it as the ultimate truth. However, these self-imposed statements and limitations are not facts, they are just beliefs.
According to Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck, author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, we operate under one of two primary mindsets: fixed mindset or growth mindset. These mindsets shape how we perceive challenges, respond to setbacks, and ultimately define the trajectory of our success.
Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset
A fixed mindset is rooted in the belief that we mentioned earlier – that our capabilities and intelligence are pre-determined and unchangeable. People with this mindset:
In contrast, a growth mindset is based on the belief that skills and intelligence can be developed and moulded through effort and perseverance. Those with a growth mindset:
They view life as a journey of continuous learning and understand that failure isn’t a dead end but truly, a stepping stone to success.
How to transition from a Fixed mindset to a Growth mindset
If you identify with someone who has a fixed mindset – don’t worry! You can move from a limiting fixed mindset to an empowering growth mindset with conscious effort. Here are 7 actionable strategies to guide you:
1 . View challenges as opportunities
Instead of running away from challenges, view them as opportunities to better yourself and grow. This slight modification in your perspective can help reframe difficulties as exciting adventures.
For example, rather than thinking that a project is too hard, view it as a chance to learn something new. Over time, this practice can help boost your confidence and even discover strengths that you weren’t aware of.
2. Pay attention to your words and thoughts
Our thoughts shape our reality – if your inner dialogue is filled with negativity, your external experiences will reflect that and affect the way you live your day-to-day life. Replace judgemental and pessimistic thoughts with affirmations that facilitate positivity and self-acceptance.
For example:
By making a conscious effort to rephrase your words, you can train your mind to be optimistic about the possibilities and not focus on the limitations.
3. Embrace your uniqueness
Although it is easier said than done, learn to accept yourself as you are – flaws, quirks, and all. Your “imperfections” are what makes you different and valuable. Acknowledge your weaknesses as areas for growth, instead of hiding from them, and soon you will realize that they were never weaknesses in the first place.
When you embrace yourself just as you are, and stop comparing yourself to others, you help yourself focus on your journey. Keep in mind that progress is never about perfection – it’s about accepting your authentic self.
4 . Growth matters more than Speed
When we live in a world that is obsessed with instant results, it is easy to forget that the process matters more than the outcome. It’s not about reaching your destination first, but about the lessons you learn and the wonderful scenery you get to experience through the journey.
Instead of worrying about how long it is taking you to master a certain skill, if you focus on becoming better with consistent effort, you will often be able to speed up progress naturally as you gain a deeper understanding of the task.
5 . “Yet” is an extremely powerful word
The word “yet” is an extremely simple, yet transformative, tool for encouraging a growth mindset. It helps change your perspective to possibility from finality.
It’s very easy to use this technique. For instance, instead of saying, “I don’t understand this,” reframe it as “I don’t understand this yet.” This small adjustment reinforces the idea that improvement is always within reach with time and effort.
6 . Be in the here and the now
The most common thing that holds one back is dwelling on past failures or on future outcomes. Enlisting the help of mindfulness practices can help you stay grounded in the present moment.
Techniques like meditation, yoga, or even deep breathing can help calm your mind and focus your energy. You’re better equipped to tackle challenges and seize opportunities when you’re fully engaged in the present.
7. Find your happiness and purpose
Take a few moments to yourself and reflect on what truly makes you happy. Gaining a deep understanding of your passions allows you to align your efforts with your purpose.
This can also help you not compare your journey to others, as you will be focusing on what success means to you. By embracing and accepting your unique path, you will be able to find fulfillment without being weighed down by external pressures.
The Reality of Mindsets
It’s important to remember that a growth mindset does not immediately guarantee success, but it increases your chances of achieving it. Shifting your mindset requires patience, persistence, and self-awareness. Over time, you’ll notice a transformation not just in how you think but also in how you approach life’s challenges.
Remember, your mindset is the foundation of your success. Start today—one thought, one action, and one step at a time—and watch how your world transforms.
