Is Your Mindset Holding You
Back? Apply a Growth Mindset & Build Extraordinary Abilities
“I have always been deeply moved by outstanding achievement and saddened by wasted potential.” Dr Carol
Dweck
World-renowned
Stanford University psychologist Dr Carol Dweck explains, “For 20 years my research has shown that the view you adopt
for yourself profoundly affects the way you lead your life.” [1]Dr Dweck initially discovered
the benefits of a growth mindset in achieving higher levels of success and shared them in her book, ‘Mindset, The New
Psychology of Success’.[2] Learning how you approach daily activities
is significant in determining whether or not you are on track to fill the gap to your potential. At the end of this article
I hope you move forward with a better understanding of how your current mindset is supporting or holding you back. And also
have new information and resources to continue developing a growth mindset that expands your abilities and possibilities!
First, what distinguishes a
fixed mindset from a growth mindset? Dr Dweck states, “a person with a fixed mindset believes we are all born with a
certain set of skills and competencies. We either have a talent for something or we don’t.”[3]In contrast she explains, “If you have a full-on growth mindset, anything and everything is possible.
If there is something you have an interest in yet don’t know how to do, you do whatever it takes to learn it.”[4] One with
a fixed mindset may initially appear talented. The fixed mindset shows up when they encounter negative criticism, obstacles,
or feel threatened by someone with greater skills. Ego takes over. Time is spent attempting to appear talented, avoiding challenges,
or quitting rather than striving to grow and develop. A person with a growth mindset may first appear awkward or inadequate
but they know they can improve with practice. Failure, critiques, and being with those who are more successful are not threatening
and embraced as opportunities to learn and improve. Obstacles are simply glitches to overcome. The growth mindset builds motivation,
drive, and a hard work ethic to learn, grow, persist, and master leading to great achievements.
The good news is that we have the ability to choose. We can change
at anytime from a fixed to growth mindset and it is relatively simple with some focused attention. Which mindset fits you
today? Which one of the sentences below best matches how you feel?
~ People are who they are with what they have
been given. Your basic intelligence, talents, and personality traits do not change much. ~ People have the ability to
substantially develop their intelligence, talents, and personality traits through focused effort.
The first statement is characteristic of a fixed mindset, while
the second is indicative of a growth mindset. So how do you make the shift when the fixed mindset is holding you back? Notice the
Evidence- Think about something that was really hard that you
have improved in dramatically. Notice the stories of others all around us who have built expertise in areas you would never
expect. Over the years I’ve learned that seeing someone struggle at the start has little insight to their success. More
important is their approach to the activity. Be Aware when the Fixed Mindset Shows Up- When negative self-talk is questioning your abilities like whether you are smart, talented, or experienced enough,
ask: What will I gain from this experience? i.e. knowledge, experience, developing a skill, strengthening your courage muscle,
etc. You may just be feeling unprepared. Shift to the growth mindset making a commitment to learn more, develop skills, and
improve. Know
that Your Mindset is a Choice- You choose which direction you
focus. Will you focus on being limited (fixed mindset)? Or will you open the possibilities by instilling the belief you can
learn, grow, develop, and achieve with effort (growth mindset)? Choose Growth Mindset Language-
Growth mindset language is not critical and does not stop you in your tracks. It is encouraging, such as: “I may not
be good now, but I will study daily and become an expert.” “I may be new but I still have value to offer and will
learn tremendously from this experience.” “This is one tough obstacle but I will keep at it until I get it, even
if I have to get help from someone more experienced.” “Can’t? What is that? Not even in my vocabulary.”
So how can you encourage growth mindset in others such as your employees, children,
family, friends, associates, etc.? Avoid labels by complimenting the effort they have put into the achievement instead of
complimenting ‘who’ you believe them to be.
The growth mindset creates a more realistic, honest self-view as you discern from each experience what you like,
don’t like, strengths, and weaknesses. The fixed mindset, however, creates a distorted self-view, exaggerated and limited,
distancing you from knowing yourself and your true abilities. Howard Gardner has studied exceptional people. In his book Extraordinary
Minds he concludes exceptional individuals have “a special talent for identifying their own strengths and weaknesses.”[5]Since the fixed mindset does not analyze abilities other than trying to determine how good
they are, it is safe to say extraordinary minds work in a growth mindset.
How will you view daily experiences and challenges from here on out? It is your choice. May
you move forward today with a growth mindset that supports you to learn, develop, and experience your extraordinary abilities…
StartingNow!
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” Marianne Williamson
How long have you waited to be happy at work, to write a book, or bring home
the income you deserve? Are you your own best support system or biggest diversion? Consider the cheetah which has no problem
using its gift of speed. The bald eagle easily leverages its keen eye sight and ability to soar. Dolphins joyfully exert their
playfulness. Imagine what is possible for humans with our unique gift of the mind if we focus on what serves us versus what
holds us back. Discover four steps to set your mind for success.
1-
Know what is limiting you~ Let's investigate a mystery. What beliefs are at your core?
Pay attention for one week to the self-limiting beliefs that show up. As a detective, be consciously aware. Keep a journal
handy for notes. Beliefs can show up as a label you place upon yourself attached to an assumption
such as Parent- there is only so much I can do or Owner- I can't count on anyone but myself. They can reveal themselves in
negative statements such as “I can’t be…”, “I can’t do…”, “I’m
not good enough”," I’m not smart enough," "I never complete anything," etc. Beliefs may be
uncovered in an assumption such as “there’s not enough time”, “that’s too hard", or “he’ll
say ‘no’ ”. Write down the beliefs you notice that restrain you from what you want.
2- Get to the source of the diversion~
A good detective digs deeper. Whose voice is attached to the belief? How did this belief
become attached to your life? Is it legitimate? Is it serving you? Or limiting you? Jot your notes. I have to warn you.
We hesitate to go within because we subconsciously know what may be lurking at the source. Fear! Write down any fears
you discover that are holding you back.
3- Rewrite your limiting beliefs and fears with an unlimited confident statement~
Turn “I can’t” into “I am”, “that’s too hard” into “I
know I can do this part”, “I don’t have enough time” into “I know what’s important and
I do that first”, and “Parent- there’s only so much I can do” to “Parent- the world is my resource.
I can do what I put my mind to.” Reread your new attitude daily. Picture it as true. Feel it as real until it
becomes part of who you are.
4- Stand strong and respond~ Do not slack when it comes to eliminating
self-limiting beliefs! When they show up, mount up. When you hear “you will never be…” respond with
"says who? I determine my value.” When you think "you are going to make a fool of yourself" respond by
saying "I will love myself for having the guts to try." And when you believe there is no time left for your dreams,
drop what is not as important and stand up for who you are.
Are you willing to do what
it takes to set your mind for success with unstoppable determination? Will you do the detective work to gain access to your
unlimited capabilities? What I want for you is to break out of the bounds of limits and become your own best Success Coach…
Starting Now!
to the top Vision Board to Faster Results- 5 Steps to Create One that Works for You
"When you repeatedly see an image in
a way that activates a positive emotional charge, you become more likely to move towards it (even if it seems like a long
shot). In action things happen. You talk to others, resources multiply, and your eyes open to opportunities. Suddenly you
discern it was within reach after all." Beth Tabak
One day I made a startling discovery. It was time for a vision
board update! Two-thirds of the images were in my life or past experience. Creating a vision board helps clarify and hold
what is important. Your dream is allowed versus repressed. The images activate an emotional response. Keeping it forefront
prompts a daily reminder and fosters determination to act (even if subconsciously). Suddenly you are bringing what you want
into your life sooner than expected. Below are five tips to build your vision board.
First, looking closely at the collage I made some intriguing
observations: ~ The vacation photo was the exact resort we visited! I was astonished. ~ A phrase used
regarding a passion manifested in two great opportunities over the year resulting in raising money that provided clean water
to two communities in Africa. ~ An image of straight teeth represented an intention to get my son braces. At some point
his teeth straightened as new teeth grew in. He no longer needed braces. Remember, the photo did not have braces only straight
teeth. Inexplicable, or is it explained by new science? Hmmmmm. ~ Photos of horses with the intention to own did not
manifest but I did rent horses and went riding. ~ I was strongly motivated to obtain a piano for my daughter, a new car,
and new furniture. I never expected to have all within a year. Taking action, I widely researched possibilities and moved
forward as if absolute. Opportunities and connections appeared. The goals were realized to complete satisfaction. ~ A
cross centered in the middle represented staying faith centered which I continue to hold. ~ A long term goal to help
over five million people worldwide is a work in progress ~ Strikingly and critical to know, the four photos not realized
were images I felt the least attached to.
So how can you create a Vision Board that works for you?
"If
you do not have a vision, nothing happens." Christopher Reeve
1- What you will need-
Choose the supplies you like. You need a poster board, push pins or glue, magazines, and a computer
is helpful. I prefer thicker foam board but choose what fits you best.
"Vision gives you the impulse to make the picture your own."
Robert Collier
2- Find images, words, numbers, quotes, and phrases that attract you- Skim
through magazines and marketing pieces. Pay attention online. When something jumps out causing a positive emotional reaction,
cut it out, and set it aside. Initially you may choose many. Compare to weed the pile down.
"A vision is not just a picture of what
could be, it is an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more." Rosabeth Moss Kanter
3- What is missing-
As you browse images ask what part of who you are or
who you aim to be is missing. Seek other sources such as photographs or use the computer to print a meaningful word, number,
phrase, or quote. Represent big, small, long and short term goals. "The question is not what you look at, but
what you see." Henry David Thoreau 4- The finished product- Create the collage in a way that expresses
you. Your goals are now represented visually. When you glance at your vision board it should feel complete and authentic to
you. Some images may seem far off and others a small stretch. Every image should induce a strong positive emotional reaction
and sense of excitement. As you browse the images fully experience them. Hold that!
"The whole world steps aside for the
man who knows where he is going." Anonymous
5- Keep your vision board in view to experience daily-
Place your collage where you see it regularly. Notice it. Experience doing, having, giving, or being what the images represent.
Use your senses to hear, see, smell, feel, and taste. At a tropical resort you hear ocean waves crashing upon the beach. You
feel the ocean spray and the subtle breeze spreads the essence of a nearby fire pit. You observe around you the peaceful grace
of majestic swaying palms and sailboats gliding in the distance. Get the picture? Feel it. Experience it. Ignite action!
Another option
is to use a visual image. I once had a caller in a teleclass who throughout her childhood hung a bridle on her bedroom doorknob
representing her dream to have a horse. She later owned a ranch with many horses. The visual image held her dream until it
became reality. Vision map videos are available as well but you have to be willing to watch it regularly. They are effective
for marketing.
So what
are you waiting for? Begin. Begin to allow what is most important to you. Give it a face. Give it an experience. Give it life.
Bring fully the vastness of your abilities one step at a time… StartingNow! Bolster Self-Determination~
4 Cornerstones to Strengthen Self-Discipline
"The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person's determination."
Tommy Lasorda
How would your life be different if you strengthened self-discipline? For some people ‘discipline’
sparks negativity so I will use ‘self-determination’ instead. Strengthening self-determination is one of the best
things you can do to make great advancements in life and work. You gain freedom, confidence, and success. Self-determination
leads to accomplishing more, perseverance, healthier choices, financial stability, a positive career/ business outlook, confidence
to handle and achieve whatever comes your way, better control of time, and perceiving obstacles as only bumps in the road.
Below are 4 cornerstones to bolster self-determination. "People of mediocre ability sometimes achieve outstanding success because they don't know when to quit. Most
men succeed because they are determined to." George E. Allen
Determination- Determination is resolute.
Firm decisions are made with the best possible outcome in mind. The objective is established often in contrast to emotions
tied to instant gratification. There is no room for excuses. You are set in your purpose. This is where strategy becomes your
structure to hold you accountable to a systematic plan to reach your end result. Whether you are deciding on stopping at the
donut shop next to the gym, working an elaborate project, or growing a new business determination is the first step. Pause
and make the best choice with firm resolve knowing your ultimate objective.
"The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you settled for."
Maureen Dowd
Daily
Discipline- This is the execution of your strategy. It is disciplining and training oneself to follow through
on the best choice while refusing to give in to emotionally-based instant gratification. You carry out a regimen knowing the
rewards are great. You strengthen your will to resist impulses that conflict with your best interests. When you fall down
you get back up, learn from it, and continue. With free will we can alter our fate. Daily discipline provides the support
system. Through this process positive transition occurs.
"Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph;
a beginning, a struggle and a victory." Gandhi
Discomfort- A natural part of the growth process, discomfort permeates
our being when resisting an impulse. It indicates growth and rewards are on their way. Similar to muscle soreness after a
workout, discomfort signifies growing pains. As you continue saying ‘yes’ to building skills, developing knowledge,
healthier food choices, taking time for your most meaningful relationships, handling details of a project, exercising, etc.
you become comfortable with discomfort.
"Winners
take time to relish their work, knowing that scaling the mountain is what makes the view from the top so exhilarating."
Denis Waitley
Desserts- The final course, the rewards, is sweet. When you become resolute in your determination,
consistently continue daily discipline, and forge through discomfort you begin experiencing rewards. Some are slow to come
but have long range, carrying you into the future with more stability. Others come while reflecting, acknowledging, and celebrating
steps achieved and progress made. Do not skip these ‘feel good’ moments by looking at what is yet to be done.
Set milestones to relish the journey along the way.
In The Mental ABCs of Pitching the author H.A. Dorfman shared, "Self-discipline is a form of freedom.
Freedom from laziness and lethargy, freedom from the expectations and demands of others, freedom from weakness and fear—and
doubt. Self-discipline allows a pitcher to feel his individuality, his inner strength, his talent. He is master of, rather
than a slave to, his thoughts and emotions.” You do not have to be a pitcher to apply this wise piece of advice.
Do you currently choose to be a master or slave to your thoughts and emotions? Use the 4 cornerstones above to tap into the
massive amount of strength you hold within and bolster self-determination.
Be Unlimited Action Challenge (choose between A or B)
Choice A- Choose
one specific area to build self-determination.
~ Begin with a smaller goal to build a record of
accomplishment. Choose your objective and strategy with firm determination. No hoping. It is a decision, a commitment, with
firm determination to succeed.
~ Execute your strategy with daily discipline. Record in a journal each time you
succeed in overcoming emotionally-based impulses by making the best choice for you. If you give into an impulse learn from
it. Jot down what was going on: were you tired, hungry, sad, stressed, etc. Excuses are not an option but we can learn from
them in order to take better care of ourselves and strengthen.
~ Decide what you will tell yourself about discomfort
so that you continue to make the best choices.
~ Acknowledge your progress and enjoy the rewards. Congratulations!
Celebrate your achievement! Continue strengthening!
Choice B- Practice building self-determination for a full month
~ Mark the last day of the month as a Celebration Day!
~ Make a note in your smart phone, a handy notebook, or whatever works best for you each time you encounter a moment of
self-determination. Note the date, day, the situation, how you felt before and after, if you used self-determination or gave
into impulses.
~ Build a record of strengthening. Learn from moments of weakness.
~ Each week acknowledge
your progress, growth, and any rewards.
~ Do something special to enjoy your Celebration Day! Congratulations!
Continue strengthening!
"Think BIG, Believe BIG, Act BIG, & the Results
will be BIG." Anonymous Quote
-Anonymous
Above Dr Sandra Chapman, Ph.D. from
the Center for Brain Health at the University of TX- Dallas shares exciting news and information the young and the
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