Growth Mindset Essay

Mindset

In her book Mindset, Carol S. Dweck discusses the idea of two kinds of individuals in the world. As well as how their beliefs and attitudes toward life and challenges effect how successful and even how happy they will be. The two groups, the two mindsets, that she discusses are the fixed mindset and the growth mindset. These two mindsets differ greatly in how they approach challenges, and life in general.

A fixed mindset is exactly what is sounds like. It is unmoving, as something carved in granite would be. There is no real change for a fixed mindset. Individuals that possess the fixed mindset feel that they are already as smart and talented as they will ever be. They do not seek to try new things, they do not enjoy challenges,

and see failure as an ultimate answer, instead of a learning point. They do not handle criticism well and need instant gratification when trying to accomplish anything. Or they will feel as if they have failed. A fear of not being good enough plagues the individuals with a fixed mindset. Obstacles that are difficult for a fixed mindset become as oppressive as prison walls. They feel as if they are being kept from success. It is a statement to them, that they are not smart enough, not talented enough, not good enough to succeed. They seek to remain in the comfort zone of their existing achievements.
A growth mindset is completely different and offers a much brighter outlook on life.

Individuals with a growth mindset welcome challenge and embrace obstacles. They do not require adoration or acclaim for the their trials. A growth mindset offers the idea that a person possess an unknown amount of potential and future possibilities are vast. An individual with a growth mindset does not see an obstacle as a trap or even a difficulty. An obstacle is seen as a learning experience, a possibility to get better at something, a chance to grow. Failure is not even an option for those with a growth mindset, it is merely another stepping stone. The effort, the drive, the challenge is what keeps a growth mindset

going.
Wilma Rudolph is a perfect example of a growth mindset.

She was the fastest woman in the world and three-time gold medalist in the Olympics. Yet she had no desire to be praised for greatness. It is easy to understand and relate to her story when she states, "I just wanted to be remembered as a hardworking lady." She simply did not give up. It is her hard work and dedication that she is remembered for. She inspired multitudes of young athletes after her. Just by working hard. That is really all a growth mindset is. The willingness to work hard and not give up.

Few people have ever possessed a straight growth mindset. I have had to struggle with a fixed mindset in the past. When I was younger, still to this day really, I wanted desperately to be able to sing. Sadly that is not a talent that I possess. I simply do not have the voice. No amount of practice will change that. I have accepted it now and moved on. However at the time, I had tried so hard, and put so much time into the effort that I was truly crushed. I was so upset that, for a period of time, I did not wish to try anything new for fear that it would turn out just as

badly.
On the other hand, I have risen to many challenges in life by looking through a growth mindset. At the time I had my son, there were many difficult things going on in my life. A lot of turmoil and heartache. I was suddenly a single mother, trying to hold down a full-time job and go to school. I wanted very much to give up and take the easy way out; drop out of school and find an easier job. Instead of giving up though, I simply decided to get up every morning and give the day my best efforts. Thus far, I am succeeding quite nicely. It is still a struggle, but I am a successful mother, full-time employed and maintaining a very high A average in college. I intend to continue and for my BSN. I am happy with the results of my hard work.
So many areas of life are effected by mindsets. It is astounding to see how much power the mind has over what a person is able to accomplish. Having a fixed mindset does not mean that a person will never accomplish anything great, but it can hinder them from doing greater things. Similarly, having a growth mindset does not guarantee that a person will accomplish everything they want. However, having a growth mindset does enable a person to reach more of his or her greatest potential. The hard work and effort put into developing a growth mindset are so beneficial. Choosing to have a growth mindset will leave a remarkable impact on anyone willing to try. It is a rewarding way to live life.