Growth Mindset versus Fixed Mindset
We have all likely experienced times when we believed we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. Most of us have also likely felt as though we could not surpass a challenge. It is common to feel confident in your abilities, whereas other times you may believe that you can’t make any progress. What is important to remember is that mindsets are not fixed. We can actively work to shift the way we think to move from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset.
How are Growth Mindsets Different from Fixed Mindsets?
A growth mindset can be defined as the belief that personal qualities can be developed and improved over time [1, 2, 3]. Conversely, a fixed mindset is the belief that these qualities and characteristics are unchangeable and will not improve [1, 2, 3]. A fixed mindset has a greater focus on validating one’s ability and coming to negative conclusions about one’s ability upon experiencing failure [4]. A growth mindset puts greater emphasis on developing one’s ability and questioning strategies and effort after experiencing failure [5]. A growth mindset is not merely the idea that you can do better if you try harder, rather, it is the belief that the ability itself can be improved and developed [4]. Examples of growth versus fixed mindset internal dialogues can be found below.
Why is Having a Growth Mindset Important?
We know the difference between having a fixed versus growth mindset, but why does having a growth mindset even matter? Well, research has shown that people who have a growth mindset are more likely to excel when faced with challenges and tend to continue to improve their skills, while those with a fixed mindset may not meet their full potential [5]. Mindset has also been found to be related to achievement and performance [6]. Specifically, having a fixed mindset has been found to predict lower achievement (e.g., grades) in students who struggle academically when compared to students who possess a growth mindset [7]. Another study found that growth mindsets were associated with higher English and math scores in 4th to 7th graders in California [8]. The association between mindset and test scores was found to be stronger in students who were experiencing greater challenges [9]. Overall, it is evident that holding the perception that one’s abilities can improve over time appears to be associated with higher achievement and improved performance compared to believing that one cannot improve their skills.
How can I Cultivate a Growth Mindset?
Now that we know what a growth mindset is and some of the benefits of having a growth mindset, how can we cultivate this mindset? There are various ways to do so! Pick some from the list below and see what works for you. If you decide on a strategy and do not find it to be helpful, try another one! The important thing is to give yourself time and grace; change is slow and implementing a new mindset is not a linear process!
Some strategies include [10]:
Embracing imperfection and facing challenges. It is important to understand that no one is perfect, but this is what makes us unique! We also want to face challenges and view them as a learning opportunity and a chance to grow. We don’t want to shy away from something that seems challenging!
Try replacing your negative thoughts with positive ones. Monitor your internal dialogue. How are you speaking to yourself? Is this positive? Negative? Actively monitor your thoughts and replace any negative, self-doubting thoughts with positive, self-affirming thoughts.
Stop seeking approval from others. Learn to trust yourself and accept yourself exactly where you are.
Begin to value the process instead of focusing on the end product. When you are working towards a goal, you will likely make mistakes along the way. Learn from these mistakes and remember that mistakes provide you with the opportunity to learn, grow, and become better.
Define what “purpose” means and looks like for you. Purpose your definition of purpose.
If you are experiencing challenges with shifting your mindset from fixed to growth, or if you are struggling with personal growth, one of our clinicians may be able to support you in this area! If you would like to talk to one of our clinicians, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to info@highpointpsychology.com.
References
[1] Yeager, D. S., & Dweck, C. S. (2012). Mindsets that promote resilience: When students believe that personal characteristics can be developed. Educational Psychologist, 47(4), 302–314. https://doi.org/10.1080/ 00461520.2012.722805
[2] Morin, A. (n.d.) What is a growth mindset? Retrieved from https://www.understood.org/en/articles/growth-mindset
[4] Yeager, D. S., & Dwek, C. S. (2020). What can be learned from growth mindset controversies? American Psychological Association, 75(9). https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000794
[5] Dweck, C. S., & Yeager, D. S. (2019). Mindsets: A view from two eras. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 14, 481– 496. https://doi.org/10 .1177/1745691618804166
[6] Burnette, J. L., O’Boyle, E. H., VanEpps, E. M., Pollack, J. M., & Finkel, E. J. (2013). Mind-sets matter: A meta-analytic review of implicit theories and self-regulation. Psychological Bulletin, 139(3), 655–701. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0029531
[7] Blackwell, L. S., Trzesniewski, K. H., & Dweck, C. S. (2007). Implicit theories of intelligence predict achievement across an adolescent transition: A longitudinal study and an intervention. Child Development, 78(1), 246 –263. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2007.00995.x
[8] Claro, S., & Loeb, S. (2019). Students with growth mindset learn more in school: Evidence from California’s CORE school districts. PACE. Retrieved from https://www.edpolicyinca.org/publications/self-managementskills-and-student-achievement-gains-evidence-california-core-districts
[9] Kanopka, K., Claro, S., Loeb, S., West, M., & Fricke, H. (2020). Changes in social-emotional learning: Examining student development over time [Working Paper] Policy Analysis for California Education). Stanford University. Retrieved from https://www.edpolicyinca.org/sites/default/ files/2020-07/wp_kanopka_july2020.pdf
[10] Davis, T. (2024). 15 ways to build a growth mindset. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/click-here-for-happiness/201904/15-ways-to-build-a-growth-mindset
Blog post written by Kassandra Burk and reviewed by Dr. Andrea Stelnicki.
The information contained in this blog post is based on a narrative review of available literature. Some studies may have been unintentionally omitted. You are advised to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if the information is appropriate to your specific circumstances.