This is one of the most important books I have ever read. Based on what I learned from Mindset, I feel equipped to reach some of those goals that have eluded me for years. And, as a mother, I have some new tools for parenting my boys so they embrace challenges and are prepared for any obstacles that come their way. Read below for a “taste” of what I learned.
Are you a growth mindset or a fixed mindset? Maybe you have no idea which mindset you might be, and you wonder why you should care. But I assure you that the concept of mindset may be a game changer for you in almost anything and everything that you do.
The book, Mindset, by Carol Dweck, was suggested reading from my son’s 2nd grade teacher. But this is not a book about parenting. And the concept of “mindset” is just as important for adults as it is children.
The two different types of mindset:
The fixed mindset believes that your qualities are carved in stone. We are each born with a fixed intelligence, capabilities, a certain type of personality and character. These things cannot be changed.
A growth mindset believes that your basic qualities are things you cultivate through your efforts. They believe that a person’s true potential is unknown (and unknowable) because it is impossible to forsee what years of passion, toil and training will accomplish.
To further the explanation, I will summarize an example that was in the book: One day you go to a class that is really important to you and you really enjoy. The professor returns midterm papers to the class and you got a C+. Is your initial reaction that you are stupid or you like the class less? Or, does this grade motivate you to study harder for the next exam in hopes of getting a better result?
Now take that example and apply it to a situation in your life where your results were less than optimal. Did you quit that activity or start liking it less? Or did you rethink the situation and find a way to achieve better results? Continue reading →
