The Growth Mindset: Understanding the Psychology of Success

Wednesday, 28 August 2024 13:45

By Adele Trathan

As children, friends and family begin their studies again for the new academic year, Adele Trathan looks at growth mindset and how our belief in learning can ultimately create a platform for success

It’s perhaps a stretch too far for some when confronted with the idea that success is subjective – as humans we are encouraged to hit objectives and milestones as a means of judging whether we have excelled; and when we don’t, we may subsequently contemplate a notion of failure.

The work we produce as a result of studying is, in some respect black and white, but it seems that our approach to learning can be more flexible. Psychologists now believe that when utilising mindfulness and positive mental action, how we prepare to study can significantly impact results.

American Carol Dweck, a renowned Stanford University psychologist, has been one of the leading voices behind this idea of motivational psychology, with many of the theories played out in her ground-breaking tome Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. The book fixated on the idea of the so-called Growth Mindset – a theory that fundamentally revolutionised how we understand learning, intelligence and personal development.

It revolves around two contrasting mindsets: fixed and growth. A fixed mindset is the belief that intelligence, talent, and abilities are static traits, inherently unchangeable. People with a fixed mindset often avoid challenges, give up easily when faced with obstacles, perceive effort as fruitless, ignore constructive criticism, and feel threatened by the success of others. They believe that success is a product of inherent talent rather than continuous effort.

On the other hand, the growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and the right strategies.

Dweck’s research has shown that the growth mindset can be fostered in individuals, leading to increased resilience, adaptability and achievement, with a focus on continuous learning and effort, leading to a healthier and more productive attitude towards personal and professional growth.

In short, the power of believing that you can improve is the fundamental principle of what we can achieve. And as a new academic year begins, the ability to cultivate or harness it may have stunning results for people close to you.

The Growth Mindset: Understanding the Psychology of Success

Share

More from Features