In today’s rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever to be able to adapt to certain situations. A growth mindset is about constantly developing one’s attitude towards a problem which results in different actions; therefore, it is an efficient concept. The model includes self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-efficacy, and it aims to improve individuals’ activities by adopting a different, more positive mentality. This article summarizes a growth mindset, how it differs from a fixed mindset, and who can benefit from it.

What is the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset?

People with fixed mindsets usually have an inner critic that constantly judges every situation. Their characteristics include inability to take constructive criticism, avoiding challenges and closed-mindedness. They are often frustrated and overwhelmed by a task because they can only see that there’s no perfect outcome yet, and it is difficult for them to enjoy the process. They often view temporary setbacks as permanent failures. On the other hand, people with a growth mindset can embrace flaws, acknowledge that it is part of the process, and creatively turn mistakes into opportunities to learn and develop an idea. They can willingly embrace a challenge and take risks without experiencing too many negative emotions. A growth mindset also means that skills and talents can be developed over time. People with growth mindset believe that effort and practice leads to mastery and sees other people’s success as an inspiration.

Why is it important?

The qualities of this mindset enable individuals to push themselves independently, even when they lack intrinsic motivation, using natural innate urges to complete a job. Individual-level research has focused on the cognitive and, more recently, the emotional processes within individuals when adapting to this kind of thinking. It also enhances the ability to exercise self-control to handle generally unmotivating but necessary duties. A growth mindset is facilitated by positive thought patterns and emotion regulation. This state of mind can help people push through the most significant obstacles and deal with stressful situations.

Who can benefit from developing a growth mindset?

A growth mindset can be a handy skill that individuals can apply for their jobs, especially entrepreneurs. However, there is often no feedback; therefore, one must rely on their internal validation. Nevertheless, companies that hire people with a growth mindset rather than a fixed mindset are likely to succeed.

Can a growth mindset be learned?

Not everyone is born with this mindset, but the good news is it can be learned. The approach can be beneficially applied by entrepreneurs, workers, or technically anybody who would like to create something new.   More conservative people who may be struggling with taking their businesses to higher achievements can also benefit from this approach. To learn and adopt a growth mindset, one must remove the negative inner voice of the fixed mindset and replace it with the question ‘what if,’ hence rewiring the brain.