Your friend mentions they're "just not a math person" when you suggest taking a data analytics course together. Your sister says she "can't draw" after seeing your sketchbook. Your coworker insists he's "terrible with names" every time he meets someone new.
These little declarations sound harmless, but they're actually revealing something deeper about how people see their own potential.
The difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset shapes how you approach challenges, setbacks, and your own development.
People with a growth mindset believe their abilities can improve with effort, while those with a fixed mindset think their talents are essentially unchangeable, meaning you either have it or you don't.
This isn't just motivational fluff. Research suggests that students who believe their intelligence can be developed tend to perform better than those who think their intelligence is fixed. The pattern shows up across different areas of personal development, from learning new skills to building resilience.
But here's where most people get it wrong: a growth mindset isn't just about trying harder. Consider trying new strategies and seek input from others when you encounter difficulties, not just power through with more effort. It's about being strategic, not just persistent.
Now that you know what to look for, here is how you can leverage it.
When you catch yourself saying "I'm not good at X," pause and reframe it. Instead of "I'm not creative," try "I haven't developed my creative skills yet." That small shift, adding "yet", changes everything about how you approach the challenge.
When you hit a plateau learning guitar or struggling with a new language app, don't just practice more. Change your approach.
Watch different tutorials, find a study partner, or break the skill into smaller pieces. Evidence suggests that people with a growth mindset welcome challenges and learn from feedback, rather than seeing setbacks as proof they can't improve.
When someone gives you critical feedback on your writing or your cooking, resist the urge to defend yourself or dismiss it.
Ask follow-up questions. What specifically could be better? What would they suggest trying differently? This is where growth actually happens, in the uncomfortable space between where you are and where you want to be.
You'll start to notice the shift most when you stop avoiding things that feel hard and start getting curious about what you could learn from them.
Did this resonate with you? Forward it on to someone who could use it too. These insights are better when shared.
Cheers,
Alex
Disclaimer: I'm a curious researcher, not a licensed psychologist. I study these concepts because I believe understanding how our minds work can help us navigate life more effectively. This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice. Please consult qualified professionals for personal guidance. Individual results may vary, and readers should use their own judgment when applying these concepts.