You must have noticed that some people keep growing through their life. They keep acquiring new skills, learning languages, or travelling to explore the world, which is also a great learning experience. In the process, don’t they face challenges, don’t they face resistance, don’t they face roadblocks? They do! But they overcome all this with Elan owing to their growth mindset. They are focused on just one thing: Growth!

Now, you must ask this question yourself – Do I love a life full of challenges or do I like avoiding these?

While difficult experiences can be uncomfortable, they allow you to improve and become better. As a result, you develop a growth Mindset, the key to long-term success in studies, work, or in relationships.

“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of being.” – John Wooden

I know of people who are following their passion after retirement because they do not want to stagnate, they want to keep Learning and keep growing. They are following their passion for singing, dancing, cooking, hiking, trekking, etc. by learning under professional guidance. Some of them revealed that they have become children once again. By learning some skill, they are reliving their school days. What could be better than this?

“You have to apply yourself each day to becoming a little better. By becoming a little better each day, over a period, you will become a lot better.” – John Wooden

Carol Dweck, a professor at Stanford University coined the theory of growth mindset. This theory categorizes human learning and intelligence patterns into two categories – Fixed Mindset and growth mindset.

A fixed mindset is when individuals consider that their abilities and talents are constrained to a fixed set. On the other hand, when individuals believe that they can improve their abilities, intelligence, and talents through their efforts, it is termed a growth mindset.

Theologians and teachers from ancient times have expounded on the inherent ability of the mind to grow and become more competent. However, it was Prof. Dweck who first developed a structured theory on the characteristics of growth mindsets.

Ms. Dweck is one of the leading researchers on mindset and learning. Her book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, explores how your beliefs affect how you feel, think, and act. These conscious and unconscious thoughts form your attitude or mentality, which affects your behaviour.

A growth mindset means you trust yourself to improve and learn new skills with practice. Having this perspective can help you achieve success and fulfil your potential.

Growth versus fixed mindset: What’s the difference?

Your way of thinking shapes how you approach problems, deal with setbacks and achieve your goals.

A fixed mindset leads you to believe you should stick to what you are good at. As a result, your skills stay the same. With a growth mindset, you view challenges as an opportunity for development.

Not only this, research in the International Journal of Aging and Human Development also shows a growth mindset may support cognitive gains in older adults. Although more research is needed, the findings show that adults and the elderly, not just kids, can benefit from growth mindset training. It implies you can successfully learn a new skill throughout your lifespan.

What restricts you the most from cultivating a growth mindset – is your thought process of accepting a mistake.

To achieve this, you should not mind seeking help from others and being open to feedback. You must have noticed that elite athletes, chefs, and performers spend hours practising. This training builds mental toughness, develops critical thinking, and nurtures a creative mindset when problem-solving. Mistakes may embarrass you, but you can only improve when you see them as a learning opportunity. They help you focus on what you need to tweak, so it does not happen again.

Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed no hope at all. – Dale Carnegie

Boise State University’s researchers report a growth mindset increases life satisfaction. It enhances creativity, improves relationships, and reduces stress. Joining a community like AIA Vitality can help validate and cheer the progress you make with your physical, mental, and financial well-being. This comprehensive wellness program delivers the support and motivation you need as you live a better, healthier, longer life.

“You are in charge of your mind. You can help it grow by using it in the right way.” – Carol Dweck

This way, develop a growth mindset and be HappyHO.