Mindset with Trevor Ragan

Authentic Growth Mindset is the belief that we can grow and build skills. Adopting that belief can have a big impact on your life.

The opposite of Growth Mindset is Fixed Mindset. That is the belief that one is born with a fixed set of natural abilities, talents, skills, etc. and they are static. Whether one thinks they're wonderful or terrible at something - Fixed Mindset believes it's unchangeable.

Everyone is a mix of both Fixed and Growth Mindset. Mindsets can change dependent upon skill, mood, time, etc. People can gravitate towards one mindset or the other situationally.

Neuroplasticity research shows that if it's a skill - you can get better at it. Variables may be how good you get and/or how quickly, but the fact is that improvement at any skill is absolutely possible.

Discomfort, feeling weird or making mistakes are all a normal and expected part of the learning process. Growth isn't possible without this part of the process.

Growth Mindset is all about 3 things: 1)Starting - Even if it's something new or unfamiliar. 2)Sticking with it - Even when it's a struggle. 3)Staying hungry - Pushing past any success with the learning process being the primary goal, rather than any particular outcome.

Those using Fixed Mindset can be consumed with their appearance or identity, such as being smart, talented or naturally capable. They can be more prone to dishonesty due to the need to prove themselves to others, since improvement is not an option to the Fixed Minds.

It's possible to steer those around you towards a Growth Mindset using feedback on the process, strategies and willingness to try something new. Praising the process rather than the outcome helps students, employees and others focus on growth rather than outcome.

Avoid Fixed Mindset stories like - "You're my kid and I'm terrible at math, so you will be too", or conversely stories like "You were born to be a basketball player". Emphasis on the innate discourages growth. Rather, focus on the skill building process.

Bottom Line: The environment of Growth Mindset matters. Learners must be surrounded by it. It's more than a single lesson, conversation or action. Changing a mindset is a long, slow process, so be patient and consistent when trying to shift from a Fixed to a Growth Mindset.