In the book Mindset, Carol Dweck, a psychologist at Stanford, proposes that there are two mindsets that shape how people view learning, risk, challenges, intelligence, ability and self.
In a fixed mindset, individuals believe their basic qualities, intelligence, or talents, are fixed traits. Documenting their intelligence or talents instead of developing them is a priority. Because individuals in a fixed mindset believe these qualities alone creates their success, they do not feel they need to work toward growth or make effort.
In a growth mindset, individuals believe that their most basic abilities can be developed and changed through dedication and hard work. This mindset creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishments.
In Mindset, Dweck explains:
· Why brains and talent don’t bring success
· How brains and talent can stand in the way of success
· Why praising brains and talent doesn’t foster self-esteem and accomplishment, but jeopardizes them
· How teaching a simple idea about the brain raises grades and productivity
· What all great CEOs, parents, teachers, athletes know about mindset
Teaching a growth mindset creates motivation and productivity in the worlds of business, education, and sports. It can also enhance relationships. Read Mindset, you’ll see how.
