Cultivating Mindsets: Growth vs Fixed Mindset
“Becoming is better than being” — Carol Dweck
Psychologist Carol Dweck distinguished between the power of cultivating a growth mindset or a fixed mindset. Those of us that hold growth mindset believe our talents and abilities can be developed and have the potential to flourish if we persist with effort, good strategies and support from others. Those of us that hold a fixed mindset insist that our abilities are innate and limited. We believe there is no opportunity for us to improve or develop our talents and qualities. Our growth mindset encourages us to reframe challenges as opportunities, to grow and learn. Our fixed mindset avoids these challenges out of a fear of vulnerability or failure.
We have the ability to sometimes alternate from a growth or fixed mindset, depending on a situation, environment or those whom are in our company . In challenging situations, we may doubt our abilities and opt for taking a less challenging, but less rewarding path. By pivoting our mindset in these situations and cultivating a growth mindset, we transform our way of thinking. We see the potential opportunities for leaning that exist as opposed to the difficulties and challenges that could reside ahead.
When we leverage a growth mindset in a higher education context, we have the ability to explore new learning opportunities, tackle challenges and deliver meaningful value. Through a continuous cycle of learning, both students and staff can utilise feedback as a positive opportunity to grow and enhance their talents abilities.
