Have you ever heard the phrase, “you either have a fixed mindset or a growth mindset”? It might sound like something a motivational speaker would say, but it’s actually an essential idea that can have profound effects on your success.
When it comes to achieving your desired goals, learning and developing your skills, and success in general, it’s all about your mindset. Fixed and growth mindsets are two opposite extremes that illustrate the difference between a positive and a negative outlook.
Let’s start with a fixed mindset: this type of mentality assumes that you have limited capabilities and that you cannot learn new skills or be successful in any other way than what already exists. It also implies that any effort put forth is wasted because the outcome is predetermined.
On the other hand, a growth mindset assumes that you are capable of learning new skills or improving existing ones; it motivates you to keep trying, even if there are setbacks along the way. This type of mindset focuses on personal growth and development, believing that with effort, anything is possible.
What’s the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset? A fixed mindset suggests that abilities are unchangeable. You are either born with them or you are not. On the other hand, a growth mindset believes that we can all learn and develop our abilities if given the opportunity.
In this article, I’m going to explore how to identify and understand both fixed and growth mindsets by discussing some fixed mindset vs growth mindset examples. My goal is to help you identify which type of mentality you may currently be in so that you can make positive changes in your life. Let’s jump right in.
Table of Contents
What is a Fixed Mindset?
A fixed mindset is the belief that your abilities and talents are set in stone. People with a this type think that their intelligence, talents, and skills cannot be improved or developed. They believe you either have certain abilities or you don’t, and there’s not much you can do to change that.
With a fixed mindset, you tend to avoid challenges and give up easily in the face of obstacles or failure. You think that having to struggle or put in effort means you’re not good enough. This limits your ability to grow and reach your full potential.
For example, say you get a bad grade on a test or project at school. If you have a fixed mindset, you’re likely to think you’re just not smart enough or talented enough in that area. You may feel like giving up and avoiding future challenges on that subject. But with a growth mindset, you can view that failure as an opportunity to learn and improve.
The truth is that abilities and intelligence can be developed over time through hard work and persistence. No one is born with a fixed amount of potential in any area. Having a fixed mindset prevents you from seeing that truth and locks you into a limited view of yourself and your abilities.
The good news is that you can change your mindset. By embracing a growth mindset, you can open yourself up to new possibilities and achieve more than you ever thought possible. But more on that later!
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What is a Growth Mindset?
A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and persistence. People with a growth mindset think that talent and skill are just the starting points. With hard work and dedication, you can expand your abilities over time.
- You believe you can improve. You accept that you may not be great at something right now, but with practice, you can get better. You’re not afraid to try new things, and you view failure as an opportunity to learn.
- You embrace challenges. Rather than avoiding things you find difficult, you see challenges as a chance to improve your skills. You’re not afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
- You learn from criticism. You don’t see feedback as a personal attack but as helpful advice for progress. You actively seek out constructive criticism to gain valuable insights into your performance.
- You find lessons and inspiration in the success of others. Rather than feeling threatened by the achievements of your peers, you study what they did to succeed and use it as motivation for your own self-improvement.
Developing a growth mindset takes conscious effort and practice. But with time and persistence, you can train yourself to believe in your ability to grow and achieve more. And that belief in yourself can open up a whole new world of possibilities.
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Fixed Mindset vs Growth Mindset Examples
Developing a growth mindset is a journey. But by being aware of your thoughts and attitudes, embracing challenges, and focusing on continuous learning, you can cultivate a growth mindset and achieve your full potential.
1. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’ve always done things this way.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What will happen if I try something differently?”
Note – A fixed mindset is the belief that you are already good at something, and that there is no room for improvement. If you have a fixed mindset, then it will be difficult to learn new skills or try out different ways of doing things because your mind thinks “I’ve always done things this way.”
2. Fixed Mindset Example – “I have to do it all myself
Growth Mindset Example – “Can I get help and support from others?”
Note- If you have a fixed mindset it can lead to feelings of isolation and insecurity in some situations, especially if you don’t trust other people to do their part or contribute positively towards the success of the team.
3. Fixed Mindset Example – “It’s not safe to change.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What are the dangers of not changing?”
Note – If you want to be successful, you need to change your mindset and become motivated by the desire to succeed. You must also stay focused on what’s important in life and not let distractions get in the way of achieving your goals.
4. Fixed Mindset Example – “This isn’t working out.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What do I need to do differently?”
Note-Be specific. Don’t just say “change.” Instead, tell me what you need to do differently and how that will help your growth.
5. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not good at math.”
Growth Mindset Example – “I’m not good at math yet.”
Note – A fixed mindset is the belief that your abilities are fixed and cannot be changed. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about your abilities as something that can be developed over time.
6. Fixed Mindset Example – “I don’t like to try new things.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What can I learn from trying something new?”
Note – A fixed mindset can lead to a fear of failure and a reluctance to try new things. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about the opportunities for learning and growth that come from trying new things.
7. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not creative.”
Growth Mindset Example – “How can I develop my creativity?”
Note – A fixed mindset can limit your ability to develop new skills. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about ways to develop your creativity.
8. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not good at public speaking.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What can I do to improve my public speaking skills?”
Note – A fixed mindset can limit your ability to develop new skills. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about ways to improve your public speaking skills.
9 Fixed Mindset Example – “I don’t like to take risks.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What can I learn from taking risks?”
Note – A fixed mindset can lead to a fear of failure and a reluctance to take risks. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about the opportunities for learning and growth that come from taking risks.
10. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not good at sports.”
Growth Mindset Example – “How can I develop my athletic abilities?”
Note – A fixed mindset is the belief that your abilities are fixed and cannot be changed. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about your abilities as something that can be developed over time.
11. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not good at writing.”
Growth Mindset Example – “How can I improve my writing skills?”
Note – A fixed mindset is the belief that your abilities are fixed and cannot be changed. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about your abilities as something that can be developed over time.
12.Fixed Mindset Example – “I don’t like to ask for help.”
Growth Mindset Example – “Who can I ask for help and support?”
Note – A fixed mindset can lead to a reluctance to ask for help and support. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about the people who can help you achieve your goals.
13. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not good at public speaking.”
Growth Mindset Example – “What can I do to improve my public speaking skills?”
Note – A fixed mindset can limit your ability to develop new skills. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about ways to improve your public speaking skills.
14. Fixed Mindset Example – “I’m not creative.”
Growth Mindset Example – “How can I develop my creativity?”
Note – A fixed mindset can limit your ability to develop new skills. The growth mindset example encourages you to think about ways to develop your creativity.
15. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at time management, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Time management is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note : A fixed mindset limits your potential, while a growth mindset allows for continuous improvement and development.
16. Fixed Mindset: I don’t need to practice because I’m already good at this.
Growth Mindset: Practice is essential to improving and mastering any skill.
Note: Even if you are naturally talented, consistent practice is necessary to maintain and improve your skills.
17. Fixed Mindset: I don’t like challenges because they make me feel uncomfortable.
Growth Mindset: Challenges help me grow and develop new skills.
Note: Stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to personal and professional growth
18. Fixed Mindset: I’m not creative, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Creativity is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: [Creativity is not a fixed trait, but rather a skill that can be honed and developed over time.]
19. Fixed Mindset: I don’t need to learn anything new because I already know everything.
Growth Mindset: There is always something new to learn and ways to improve.
Note: A growth mindset encourages a lifelong love of learning and personal development.
20. Fixed Mindset: I can’t do it because I’ve never done it before.
Growth Mindset: I may not have done it before, but I can learn and figure it out.
Note: A growth mindset allows for the possibility of learning new things and overcoming challenges.
21. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at sports, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: With practice and effort, I can improve my athletic abilities.
Note: Physical abilities can be improved with consistent practice and effort.
22. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at art, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Art is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Artistic abilities can be developed with practice and experimentation.
23. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to ask for help because it makes me look weak.
Growth Mindset: Asking for help is a sign of strength and a way to learn and improve.
Note: Asking for help is a sign of humility and a willingness to learn from others.
24. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to take risks because I might fail.
Growth Mindset: Taking risks is how I learn and grow, even if I fail.
Note: Taking risks can lead to new opportunities and experiences.
25. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at public speaking, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: With practice and effort, I can improve my public speaking skills.
Note: Public speaking is a skill that can be improved with practice and preparation.
26. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to try new things because I might not be good at them.
Growth Mindset: Trying new things is how I learn and grow, even if I’m not initially good at them.
Note: Trying new things can lead to unexpected discoveries and personal growth.
27. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at writing, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Writing is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Writing is a skill that can be improved with practice and feedback.
28. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn a new language because it’s too hard.
Growth Mindset: Learning a new language is challenging, but it’s also a way to expand my horizons and grow
Note: Learning a new language can open up new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
29. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at science, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Science is a subject that can be learned and understood with practice and effort.
Note: Science can be challenging, but with persistence and effort, anyone can develop an understanding of scientific concepts.
30. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to try new foods because I might not like them.
Growth Mindset: Trying new foods is how I expand my palate and experience new cultures.
Note: Trying new foods can broaden your horizons and expose you to new cultures.
31. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to exercise because I’m not naturally athletic.
Growth Mindset: Exercise is a way to improve my health and fitness, regardless of my natural abilities.
Note: Exercise is important for overall health and can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of natural abilities.
32. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn a new skill because I’m too old.
Growth Mindset: It’s never too late to learn something new and develop new skills.
Note: Age should not be a barrier to learning and personal development.
33. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn from my mistakes because it’s embarrassing.
Growth Mindset: Learning from my mistakes is how I improve and grow as a person.
Note: Embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth can lead to greater resilience and self-improvement.
34. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at technology, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Technology is a skill that can be learned and understood with practice and effort.
Note: Technology is constantly evolving, but with a growth mindset, anyone can keep up with the latest developments.
35. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to take on new responsibilities because I might fail.
Growth Mindset: Taking on new responsibilities is how I learn and grow, even if I make mistakes.
Note: Taking on new responsibilities can help you develop new skills and grow professionally.
36. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at cooking, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Cooking is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Cooking is a skill that can be developed with practice and experimentation.
37. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about different cultures because it’s too different from my own.
Growth Mindset: Learning about different cultures is how I expand my understanding and empathy for others.
Note: Learning about different cultures can lead to greater understanding and empathy for others.
38. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about new technology because it’s too complicated.
Growth Mindset: Learning about new technology is how I stay current and adapt to changing times.
Note: Keeping up with new technology can help you stay competitive in the job market.
39. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at networking, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Networking is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Networking is an important skill for building relationships and advancing your career.
40. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn a musical instrument because I’m not naturally talented.
Growth Mindset: Learning a musical instrument is a way to develop a new skill and express myself creatively.
Note: Learning a musical instrument can be a fun and rewarding way to express yourself creatively.
41. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to take on leadership roles because I’m not a natural leader.
Growth Mindset: Leadership is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Leadership is a skill that can be developed through practice and mentorship.
42. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at design, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Design is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: A fixed mindset limits your potential, while a growth mindset allows you to develop new skills and abilities.
43. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about social media because it’s too superficial.
Growth Mindset: Learning about social media is how I can build my personal brand and connect with others.
Note: A growth mindset values learning and personal development, while a fixed mindset focuses on perceived limitations.
44. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at negotiation, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Negotiation is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: A growth mindset sees challenges as opportunities for growth, while a fixed mindset sees them as obstacles to be avoided.
45. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about leadership because it’s too demanding.
Growth Mindset: Learning about leadership is how I can develop my potential and inspire others.
Note: A growth mindset values leadership as a way to positively impact others, while a fixed mindset sees it as too demanding.
46. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at graphic design, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Graphic design is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: A growth mindset values creativity and innovation, while a fixed mindset sees certain skills as unattainable.
47. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about entrepreneurship because it’s too risky.
Growth Mindset: Learning about entrepreneurship is how I can create opportunities and innovate.
Note:A growth mindset values taking calculated risks and creating opportunities, while a fixed mindset sees entrepreneurship as too risky.
48. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at data analysis, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Data analysis is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note:A growth mindset values data analysis as a way to make informed decisions, while a fixed mindset sees it as too difficult.
49. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about fashion because it’s too superficial.
Growth Mindset: Learning about fashion is how I can appreciate different forms of art and design.
Note: A growth mindset values the art and design aspects of fashion, while a fixed mindset sees it as superficial.
50. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at coding, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Coding is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: A growth mindset values problem-solving and logic, while a fixed mindset sees coding as too complex.
51. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about public speaking because it’s too intimidating.
Growth Mindset: Learning about public speaking is how I can improve my communication skills and confidence.
Note: A growth mindset values effective communication, while a fixed mindset sees public speaking as too intimidating.
52. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at writing, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Writing is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Writing skills can be useful in both personal and professional settings, leading to more successful outcomes.
53. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about music theory because it’s too technical.
Growth Mindset: Learning about music theory is how I can understand and appreciate different forms of music.
Note: Art is a form of expression that can provide insight into different cultures and perspectives.
54. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at web design, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Web design is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Networking skills can be valuable in personal and professional settings, leading to improved relationships and opportunities.
55. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about public policy because it’s too boring.
Growth Mindset: Learning about public policy is how I can understand and engage with important issues.
Note: Socializing is not a fixed trait, and with practice, I can become more comfortable and confident in social situations.
56. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at video editing, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Video editing is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: : A growth mindset values the importance of video editing in the digital age, while a fixed mindset sees it as too difficult.
57. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about social justice because it’s too controversial.
Growth Mindset: Learning about social justice is how I can become a more informed and empathetic citizen.
Note: A fixed mindset limits your potential, while a growth mindset allows for continuous improvement and development.
58. Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at cooking, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Cooking is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: A growth mindset values the importance of cooking as a life skill, while a fixed mindset sees it as too difficult.
59. Fixed Mindset: I don’t want to learn about personal finance because it’s too stressful.
Growth Mindset: Learning about personal finance is how I can improve my financial literacy and make better decisions.
Note: Financial literacy is an important life skill that can lead to better decision-making and financial security.
60.Fixed Mindset: I’m not good at event planning, and I never will be.
Growth Mindset: Event planning is a skill that can be developed with practice and effort.
Note: Time management is a skill that can help you be more productive and achieve your goals.
Final Thought
So there you have it. The difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset is really about your underlying beliefs and how they shape your behavior and experiences. With a fixed mindset, you believe your abilities are static and unchangeable, so you avoid challenges and give up easily in the face of obstacles.
But with a growth mindset, you believe your abilities can be developed through effort and persistence. You see challenges as opportunities to learn; you learn from your mistakes and failures, and you achieve more in the long run. The choice is yours. You can remain stuck in a fixed mindset or cultivate a growth mindset and reach your full potential. The growth mindset is the way to go if you want to achieve and accomplish more in life.
References
- GROWTH MINDSET VS. FIXED MINDSET: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? by Catherine Cote published in https://online.hbs.edu/
- The Choice to Make a Difference by Carol S. Dweck published in SAGE Journals
Call to Action
Make the shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. All it takes is a willingness to learn and the determination to push past obstacles. So are you ready to unlock your true potential? The journey starts today.
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