Only ten years ago, I was standing behind an old brown cash register at a small retail store, scanning items for $7.25 an hour—the minimum wage back then. If someone had told me that a decade later I’d earn a Ph.D. from Berkeley, write a blog for Psychology Today, and publish a book on finding happiness in today’s digital world, I would’ve thought they were out of their mind. I had no contacts, no money, and no idea how to get from where I was to where I am now. But I had one thing that made all the difference—a growth mindset.
What Is a Growth Mindset?
There are different ways of thinking, and each one can help or hurt our well-being. A growth mindset is the belief that we can improve our abilities through hard work and dedication. It’s not a magic formula, but without this mindset, we often don’t try hard enough—and that can keep us stuck.
With a growth mindset, we believe we can grow, and we put in the effort needed to reach our long-term goals—whether that’s in our job, relationships, or other parts of life.
Do You Have a Growth Mindset?
Ask yourself: Do you believe your skills and intelligence were set from birth and won’t change? Or do you believe you can learn, grow, and become wiser with each new experience?
If you answered “yes” to the first, that’s known as a fixed mindset. If you answered “yes” to the second, you likely have a growth mindset, a term popularized by Stanford professor Carol Dweck.
But don’t worry if you lean more toward a fixed mindset right now—it can be changed.
Why Does a Growth Mindset Matter?
When we have a fixed mindset, we may avoid challenges because we don’t want to feel embarrassed or make mistakes. This fear can hold us back from growing and trying new things that could improve our lives.
With a growth mindset, we accept challenges—even if they’re tough—because we care more about learning and growing than about looking like we already have it all figured out. People with a growth mindset tend to develop new skills more easily because they believe they can—and they work hard at it.
In the long run, building a growth mindset can lead to a more meaningful and well-rounded life.
Key Differences Between Fixed and Growth Mindsets
1. Effort
Someone with a fixed mindset may try to avoid hard work, while someone with a growth mindset understands that effort is necessary. To master something new, we often need to use mental or physical energy and keep practicing.
2. Challenges
People with a fixed mindset may avoid challenges because they fear failure. In contrast, those with a growth mindset see challenges as chances to learn and grow. They stick with them and move on to even greater goals.
3. Mistakes and Feedback
A fixed mindset can make people afraid of making mistakes. They might blame others or get defensive. But a growth mindset helps people see mistakes as lessons and view feedback as helpful instead of personal.
15 Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset
Changing from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset takes time, but small steps can help. Here are some ways to get started:
1. Accept your imperfections and those of others.
We all have flaws and unique traits that make us who we are. Embracing these can help us feel more confident and grow.
2. Face challenges with courage.
When something seems scary or difficult, try seeing it as an opportunity. This small shift in thinking can make challenges feel more like exciting adventures.
3. Watch your thoughts and words.
Pay attention to what you say, both out loud and in your mind. If your thoughts are negative, try to shift them to be more positive and hopeful. Be your own guide.
4. Stop seeking approval.
Wanting approval from others can hold you back. Learn to trust yourself and focus on your own growth, not on impressing people.
5. Be more authentic.
Trying to be someone you’re not can take away your true strengths. Being honest with yourself helps you work toward your real goals.
6. Find a sense of purpose.
Ask yourself what your purpose is, and spend time reflecting or meditating on it. Knowing your “why” helps keep you on a growth path.
7. Redefine what “genius” means.
Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Focus on your strengths and improve where you can. This builds confidence and a stronger mindset.
8. Look for the lesson in criticism.
Feedback is meant to help you improve. Try to see criticism as a gift that can guide you forward.
9. Value the process, not just the result.
Don’t rush to the finish line. Growth comes from the effort you put in along the way.
10. Learn from other people’s mistakes.
You don’t have to make every mistake yourself. Watching others and learning from their experience can save you time and help you grow.
11. Use the words “not yet.”
If you’re struggling with something, remind yourself you haven’t mastered it yet. That word gives you space to improve without feeling like a failure.
12. Take chances around others.
Be willing to make mistakes in front of people. With practice, this gets easier and helps build confidence.
13. Be patient.
Big changes and new skills take time. Whether you’re learning a new language or becoming good at a new job, give yourself room to learn.
14. Don’t rush.
Progress can be slow, and that’s okay. When you focus on the process and give it your best, the results often come naturally.
15. Choose your attitude.
If you want a growth mindset, take steps to build it. Keep going, even when it’s hard. Be resilient, and know that you’re shaping your own mind. That’s a powerful thing.
In Summary
Having a growth mindset means you welcome challenges, keep going after setbacks, take responsibility for your actions, and know that effort leads to progress. It’s the reason we say “practice makes perfect.”
By working to develop a growth mindset, you make it more likely that your efforts will lead to real results—and that you’ll create a life you truly want.
