The way we think, or in other words, our mindset is what determines how we deal with life and challenges. From everyday little things, to how we solve major life obstacles, it is the mindset that can greatly affect our decisions.
Mindset consists of basic beliefs about ourselves, our conscious and unconscious, affecting what we want and how much we will succeed in getting it. We all become aware at some point that our mindset is what differentiates us from other people, but we may not know what that means and how it shapes us.
Two main types of mindsets
Psychologists agree that there are two types of mindsets: fixed and growth, which we encounter from an early age and adopt throughout our life until they become a part of us. Each one of us can develop a mindset that can determine what our future is going to look like.
The first type – fixed – mindset is characterized by the attitude that our qualities are unchangeable and predetermined, and that the lack of intelligence and talent is the reason why we fail in life. People with a fixed mindset believe that a negative outcome can only be someone else’s fault. Fixed mindset tells us that regardless of our efforts, we cannot achieve much or affect the end result, which largely determines how happy and successful we will be.
The second type – growth – mindset is characterized by the opinion that regardless of what was given to us by birth, with dedicated work, effort and commitment, we can achieve everything we want. There are no limitations, they are only temporary obstacles on our path to discovering new possibilities, which gives us great self-confidence and determination. These are the people who are not afraid and can do anything they set their mind to.
In fact, it is about people with growth mindsets who know what it takes to succeed and are willing to fight for it. They realize that a lot of work is needed, that there will be challenges and overcoming fears, but that does not mean that it is impossible.
How does mindset define us
As adults and as parents, you are certainly aware of some beliefs about yourself and that has an affect on how persistent you are. These beliefs can indeed be limiting but research tells us that brain scanning showed something rather unusual. Faced with a problem or error, people with fixed mindsets show a minimum of brain activity, while people with growth mindsets show the complete opposite – a brain that is maximally activated.
It is proven that a person with limiting beliefs does not really use his intellectual potential, that by thinking that they can’t do something, they prevent themselves from progressing and using the skills they naturally possess.
Mindset also affects creativity. According to experts, the people we consider exceptional and talented are actually people who have turned their weakness into something positive and successful. These are people with growth mindsets who have been looking for a way to turn their flaws into an opportunity for development. Carol Dweck, author of the No. 1 book about mindset, writes: “In the growth mindset, failure can be a painful experience. But it doesn’t define you. It’s a challenge to be faced, dealt with, and learned from ”.
The growth mindset stands for incredible persistence and perseverance, and the creativity comes as a result of constant self work.
Help your child adopt the growth mindset on time
The most beautiful thing about the mindset is that we develop it throughout our lives, from day one, and we can influence it. This is especially important for parents who want to help their children develop the right way of thinking.
Knowing what each type of mindset means and includes, there is no doubt that every parent will decide to develop a growth mindset in their child. By doing so, you will increase the happiness of your child and help him be persistent in striving to fulfill his desires. Faith in oneself and one’s abilities is an important factor for every child and enables them to develop freely.