When we work toward our goals, our mindset can play a big part in how successful we are. We can choose to approach them with either a growth mindset or a fixed mindset.

Having a growth mindset means being open to learning and putting in the effort to get better. It’s about believing that we can build our skills and abilities through hard work.

In contrast, a fixed mindset leads us to believe that we either have what it takes or we don’t. This kind of thinking can hold us back from learning and improving.

A Quick Reminder—What Is a Growth Mindset?

The idea of a growth mindset was introduced by American psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck. She explained that our mindset can strongly influence our chances of success in many areas—like work, school, art, or sports. Her research and book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, explain this idea in detail.

According to Goredema, people with a growth mindset believe that abilities, talents, and intelligence can be developed through effort. On the other hand, people with a fixed mindset believe these traits are fixed and cannot be changed.

Our mindset shapes how we deal with problems. Those with a growth mindset view challenges as chances to learn and grow, while people with a fixed mindset see them as barriers and often stay within their comfort zones, says Peña.

If someone with a fixed mindset faces a difficult task, it might seem impossible because they don’t believe they can improve. They think that if they don’t already know how to do it, they will fail—so they might not try at all.

What Are 5 Signs of a Growth Mindset?

Here are five common signs that someone has a growth mindset:

• Love of learning: People with a growth mindset stay curious and open to learning. They’re less worried about looking smart and more focused on learning, as Dr. Dweck points out.
  
• Hard work: They understand that reaching goals takes effort and are willing to put in the work to get there.
  
• Welcoming challenges: They see challenges as a chance to learn something new and improve their skills.
  
• Accepting feedback: Instead of feeling hurt by feedback, they use it as a tool to get better.
  
• Learning from mistakes: Rather than giving up after failing, they learn from their mistakes and try again with a new approach. Goredema says they reflect on what didn’t work and make changes instead of doubting their abilities.
  

Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset: Real-Life Examples

Here are some simple comparisons to show the difference between the two mindsets:

• Learning a new skill
  
  • Fixed mindset: “I can’t learn an instrument. I’m not musical.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “If I keep practicing, I’ll get better.”
    
• Facing a work challenge
  
  • Fixed mindset: “I’ve never done a presentation. I’ll mess it up.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “This is my first try. I’m excited and I’ll prepare well.”
    
• Handling feedback
  
  • Fixed mindset: “My boss didn’t like my report. She doesn’t get it.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “That feedback was useful. I’ll make improvements.”
    
• Going to a job interview
  
  • Fixed mindset: “I’m not good enough for this job.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “This job excites me. I can learn what I need to know.”
    
• Dealing with relationship issues
  
  • Fixed mindset: “We always argue. This won’t work.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “Let’s talk things through and try to fix it.”
    
• Working on fitness goals
  
  • Fixed mindset: “I tried and failed. I’m not cut out for this.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “Progress takes time. If I stay consistent, I’ll get stronger.”
    
• Tackling a hard task
  
  • Fixed mindset: “I can’t do this.”
    
  • Growth mindset: “This is a challenge I’m ready to face.”
    

Even Thomas Edison showed a growth mindset. Though it took him more than 10,000 attempts to invent the lightbulb, he said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

The Benefits of a Growth Mindset

Here are some ways a growth mindset can help us:

• Helps us bounce back: It pushes us to keep trying after setbacks. A fixed mindset can leave us feeling stuck or defeated when we fail.
  
• Makes us more flexible: We become better at adjusting to changes in both work and life.
  
• Improves chances of success: Studies show that people with growth mindsets stay motivated and are more likely to take on new challenges, which leads to better results.
  
• Reduces stress and anxiety: A growth mindset helps us handle stress, disappointment, and frustration in a healthier way.
  
• Keeps us grounded: It reminds us there’s always more to learn, which keeps us humble.
  
• Breaks down stereotypes: Those with growth mindsets are more open to ideas that challenge stereotypes, while those with fixed mindsets often look for proof that supports their beliefs.
  

How to Build a Growth Mindset

It’s never too late to shift your mindset. Peña explains that our brains can change and grow—a concept called neuroplasticity. Here are some steps you can take:

• Be curious: Ask questions, try new things, and talk to different people.
  
• Face challenges directly: Don’t avoid hard tasks. Ask yourself what’s the worst that can happen—it’s usually not as bad as you fear.
  
• Watch your self-talk: Be mindful of negative thoughts and replace them with positive, supportive ones.
  
• See failure as learning: Instead of fearing failure, look at it as a chance to learn. Think about what you can do better next time.
  
• Ask for feedback: Check in with coworkers, managers, or loved ones to find out where you can improve and how to better support them.
  
• Spend time with positive people: Surround yourself with people who have a positive outlook and pursue their goals. Goredema says their energy can influence you in a good way.
  
• Choose helpful content: Pay attention to what you read or listen to. Goredema suggests choosing inspiring podcasts or educational content instead of spending too much time on social media.
  

How to Handle Setbacks with a Growth Mindset

Here are some tips to stay on track when things get tough:

• Change how you see problems: View them as chances to get better instead of as roadblocks.
  
• Focus on finding solutions: Rather than worrying about the problem, think about how you can fix it. Goredema says this builds new momentum.
  
• Make a step-by-step plan: Break down the challenge into smaller tasks and take them on one at a time.
  
• Picture success: Visualize yourself overcoming the issue. Research shows this can improve your confidence and motivation.
  
• Keep going: Be patient. Growth takes time.
  
• Stay flexible: Be open to changing your approach based on what you learn along the way.
  
• Celebrate small wins: Recognize and enjoy your progress. Every small step counts.
  
• Reflect on your journey: Think about what worked, what didn’t, and how you can do better next time.
  
• Learn from mistakes: Don’t be too hard on yourself. Mistakes are a natural part of growing.
  

Final Thoughts

A growth mindset can make a big difference in how we see ourselves and our goals. The good news is that it’s something we can learn and develop over time. It all starts with staying open to growth and viewing challenges as chances to improve.

So, when something difficult comes up, don’t step back—say, “Challenge accepted!” You’re more capable than you think.