Growth Mindset

I am not afraid of storms for I am learning to sail my ship.

Louisa May Alcott

People are storytellers. We tell stories about our life. We tell stories we hear from others. We also tell stories about the world as we experience it. That lady with the screaming child in the store – we tell a story about an out-of-control child, a mom refusing to take control, a child that is stressed or tired, a mom that is overworked, or any number of other possibilities about these characters about whom we know very little.

We also tell stories about ourselves, our lives:

• “I can’t believe I did that, again! Something must be wrong with me.”
• “I’m so clumsy.”
• “Who are they to question me? I know what I am talking about!”
• “There’s no way my baby would do that.”
• “I’m not qualified for that job. There’s no use applying for it.”
• “I can’t trust any man/woman. I’m better off by myself.”
• “I can’t apologize. If I do, that shows weakness.”

With all the experience we have as storytellers, sometimes we do a terrible job! We tell stories that declare the battle lost before it’s begun. We tell stories of being a perpetual victim. We tell stories of being the hero everyone should admire and appreciate. We tell stories of anger and fear.

Growth mindset is all about taking responsibility for the stories we tell, and taking action to tell a different story – one where we can grow, things can change, and results are worth pursuing with discipline and optimism. Here’s a short video on the subject:

One of the great things about growth mindset is that it doesn’t just benefit our lives, but it totally changes the messages we send to the children we serve and shapes the way they see themselves and approach their challenges!

Learn More!

• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success (2007) by Carol Dweck, Ph.D.
• Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It (2021) by Ethan Kross
• What is a Growth Mindset? 8 Steps to Develop One. by Western Governors University
• Want to Succeed? Turn Your Fixed Mindset into a Growth Mindset by Krista Mashore for Entrepreneur
• Fixed vs. Growth Mindset — Beliefs That Shape Your Life by Aviran Revach
• Growth Mindset for the Classroom (video) by Teachings in Education

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, there are people who can help you. Please call or text 988 or go to 988lifeline.org where you can find more information and even chat with someone 24 hours a day.

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