Do you have a growth mindset? Having a growth mindset in 2021 will be important to survive the crazy environment we find ourselves in. In this article, I will share some tips on how to establish a growth mindset.
What is a growth mindset?
“In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.”
The opposite of a growth mindset is a fixed mindset.
“In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits. They spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them. They also believe that talent alone creates success—without effort.”
Someone with a growth mindset is better able to adapt to the disruption that is occurring today due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be particularly true in 2021 as we are all suffering from some form of pandemic fatigue.
So, developing a growth mindset this year will be critical as what is happening in the world today is out of our control.
Steps Toward Developing a Growth Mindset
There are a lot of articles and books on this topic. I want to highlight my favorite ideas from this material.
Reframe Your Problems
Do you look at a problem as a… problem or as a challenge?
A good example of reframing a problem is when a recruiter or hiring manager is not responding to your emails. Rather than get frustrated, look for ways to get their attention possibly by calling them on the phone, texting, or finding alternative ways to poke them on social media.
Value the Process Over the End Result
Life is a journey. I do not know who originally said, take time to smell the roses, but it is excellent advice.
Many have learned to cook again and are really enjoying it. We love both the creative process of preparing foods but also the healthy effects of eating home-cooked meals.
I suggest you take time to reflect on 2020. What did you change? What did you learn?
Take Risks in the Company of Others
Rarely are we successful based entirely on our own efforts. If you are going to do something new, find your tribe to support you.
Standing on stage in front of a friendly audience that will laugh with you and not at you is invaluable. You quickly find that you are willing to try things, make mistakes, and be willing to learn to do things a different way.
Find people who will support you. This is a shameless plug… you might consider joining the Career Pivot Membership community to get this kind of support.
Own Your Attitude
As a kid, many of us might have said, my friend made me feel guilty. But the truth is that no one can make you feel guilty.
In these difficult times, it is time to own our feelings. We can choose to:
- Reframe our problems
- Enjoy the journey
- Take risks in the company of others
These are all choices.
Now is a Great Time to Develop a Growth Mindset
If you make a conscious effort to shift your mindset from a fixed to a growth mindset you will better position yourself for success in 2021.
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