Introduction
A fixed mindset refers to the belief that abilities, intelligence and talents are fixed traits that cannot be easily changed. With a fixed mindset we are more likely to give up easily, avoid mistakes and apply less effort to get results.
A growth mindset refers to the belief that intelligence, abilities and talents are things that can be developed and improved through hard work and applied effort. With a growth mindset we are more likely to listen to feedback, apply effort, persevere with setbacks and learn from mistakes.
A growth mindset is an incredibly valuable asset as a coach, as it will serve you best when looking at how to improve your service, knowledge and communication to clients.
General Characteristics of a Growth Mindset
The key characteristics of a growth mindset include:
- Embracing challenges, and instead of giving up when things get tough, you start to see challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Persistence is another key feature of a growth mindset. This is relevant for dealing with obstacles specifically, so that in the face of difficult circumstances you don’t give up, you persist and find a solution which helps you move forward and overcome these obstacles
- Learning from criticism and feedback – with a growth mindset you are more inclined to listen to feedback and see criticism constructively so that you can learn from this to develop and grow.
- Not being afraid to make mistakes – you are more likely to embrace mistakes and see failure as a way of learning, rather than something to avoid.
Tips for Developing a Growth Mindset
Identify Your Own Mindset
Understanding your current mindset is the first step toward growth. Reflect on how you approach challenges, whether at work or during a workout.
Consider what goes through your mind when facing difficulties. Do you think, “I’m just naturally good at this,” or do you recognise the effort you’ve put into getting the most out of a task?
Identifying your own current mindset helps you understand areas where you may unknowingly limit yourself.
Look at Your Own Improvements
Think about something you’re better at today than you were in the past.
What did you find challenging before that now feels easier? Analysing your improvement can shine a light on the efforts and strategies that have led to success.
The Power of “Yet”
The simple addition of “yet” to your vocabulary can be incredibly powerful. It turns absolutes into possibilities, for example, by turning “I can’t do this” into “I can’t do this yet.”
This small word implies that with time and persistence, you can and will improve. A growth mindset is all about seeing challenges as opportunities
White Belt Mentality
Have the mindset of a beginner and a learner, aka the ‘white belt mentality.’
This means being open to learning from anyone, anywhere, anytime.
You should challenge yourself by stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. By continually exposing yourself to new experiences and being willing to be a beginner, you reinforce a growth mindset.
Make Mistakes
Allow yourself to make mistakes and recognise them as a massive part of the learning process.
Understand that perfection is not the goal; the goal is improvement.
Mistakes are not indicators of failure, they’re steps towards better knowledge, understanding and a greater rate of skill acquisition. Volume of effort negates luck, and with volume naturally come mistakes. The important thing is that you learn from them.
Conclusion
Developing a growth mindset is not an overnight change. By implementing these tips, you can start to see your challenges as opportunities for growth, leading to a more fulfilling and resilient life. If you’re looking to make a change in your life with a career change which fully embodies your passion for personal development and growth, be sure to check out our level 3 personal trainer course.