Developing a Growth Mindset

I recently listened to a TED talks presenter that was speaking on the concept of mindsets.  In his presentation he revealed the differences between what was coined a fixed mindset vs. a growth mindset.  Essentially we all approach problem solving in one of these two methods, the difference being each has a different perspective on intelligence and performance.  A fixed mindset reasons that success is a by-product of ability and natural talent.  A growth mindset differs in the fact that it equates success as the result of reflection, correction and willingness to learn.

The difference in mindset is best summed up in two sentences.  I can’t do that vs. I can’t do that yet.  It is suggested by the presenter that this view on intelligence/performance is critical in our success, where studies have shown fixed mindset thinkers resulted in an unwillingness to grow, to be challenged and led to stunted performance.  Growth mindset alternatively resulted in people that sought out more complex challenges, and had a higher capacity for learning.

Naturally I reflected on my own attitudes toward performance and found that in many circumstances I was a fixed mindset thinker.  Looking at some very noticeable challenges that face me in my Kung Fu training I often equate my inability to move forward to a God given lack of talent.  This way of thinking stunts progress.  In your own training, have you ever said, well I am just not a side kick guy, or, I never had the flexibility for that.  This my friend, is a fixed mindset way of thinking. 

The more I thought on this, the more I realized I had heard this exact concept before.  Mastery, by Stuart Emery outlines this exact concept of developing a growth mindset. If you haven’t, I would encourage you to read this, or review it and follow the link and listen to this TED talk.  See if you too can draw the parallels between a growth mindset and the concepts of achieving mastery.

Does the sentence “correct, don’t protect” ring a bell. A “protect” attitude is a fixed mindset thinker.  A “correct” attitude is a growth mindset.

Of course our Kung Fu training requires hard work, grit, determination, but perhaps these are just the product of the mindset in which we approach our training.

http://youtu.be/pN34FNbOKXc