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We often hear the words knowledge and wisdom used interchangeably. While these two words are both nouns, this is one of the few things they have in common.
The word wisdom was used as far back as before the year 900. On the other hand, knowledge didn’t come into use until around 1300. During that time, philosophers spent a lot of time trying to understand such concepts.
Knowledge is the information you learn from sources such as textbooks, the Internet, videos, etc. It is the accumulation and understanding of facts and truths, or what is perceived to be so. It has been said that knowledge helps you know if a point is true or false. With enough available information and time, most people can gain knowledge.
Getting a degree in Psychology is an example of knowledge.
You are given information about how the typical person behaves in a usual circumstance. You may learn that a certain percentage of the population is diagnosed with one disorder or another. You may also know what medications are typically prescribed for specific disorders. You may learn about what presumably causes racism and the textbook idea of how to go about addressing the subject.
Yet another example of knowledge is learning how to do something like fish. You know that you need to put the bait on the hook and may even understand what kind of bait different fish prefer. You learn how to cast your line and reel it in. You may even have participated in some simulations. You know about how fishing is supposed to happen.
Some common synonyms for knowledge include ability, awareness, education, expertise, grasp, and familiarity.
What is Wisdom?
Wisdom is the ability to take what you know and apply experience, common sense, and judgment to see if it is appropriate for the current situation. It is putting knowledge into practice and learning from the results you have experienced. Wisdom is about discerning whether an action is true or right.
Let’s take a look at the example of psychology again.
Daryl Davis didn’t know a textbook. He learned about racism at an early age, and he was taught that the only solution to racism was to run or retaliate in anger. Yet, he saw those things didn’t work. He looked around at the people he knew and saw that kindness often worked better and quicker than violence.
He saw that when people felt heard, they, in turn, listened. Taking the knowledge he had gained, he spoke with a KKK member. He listened, and he spoke empathetically to the man. Eventually, that man and others also walked away from that way of thinking. Davis used wisdom to choose his method of approach.
Wisdom is putting knowledge into practice and learning from the results that you experienced.
Now, let’s revisit the fishing example from above. You are confident you have learned everything you need to know to fish successfully. You set out to a local river with your new fishing gear. The current is strong, something you hadn’t considered. The wind is picking up, and as you attempt to cast your line, the line tangles, and you need to put on a new line. You realize it isn’t as easy as the video made it look. You still haven’t caught a fish after hours of sitting on the shore. When your fishing pole breaks, you go home.
The next time you go fishing, you check the local weather reports. You look at various spots and choose calm water. You also make a point of bringing along an extra line and a second pole. Lastly, see what time is best for catching fish in this area. The trip was a success. You have taken the knowledge you have gained, made decisions based on what did not work the last time, and adjusted your actions. This is wisdom.
Some synonyms for wisdom include caution, experience, foresight, judgment, and prudence.
5 Differences Between Knowledge and Wisdom
They say that knowledge is knowing what to say, and wisdom is knowing when to say it. This is a simplified version that shows the difference between the two. Let’s look at some of the significant differences between knowledge and wisdom.
Difference #1:It’s All About Perspective
Knowledge is about knowing the facts. You know what the situation appears to be. You know what you have been told is the proper action to take or the proper reaction. Yet, things don’t always go the way they are “supposed” to go. You have read all the child-rearing books and know you are supposed to allow your teenager to make decisions for themselves whenever possible so that they can learn to deal with life.
When your 14-year-old asks to attend a party that starts at 11 at night, you know that things you don’t want your child exposed to are likely to occur. Knowledge tells you to trust their decision. Wisdom tells you that the child is expected to be in a situation they can’t handle yet. You deny their request. Yes, they need more freedom, but this isn’t the correct time to give them that freedom.
Difference #2:Less is More
Knowledge is about adding things. You study and gather information, and the more you do so, the more your brain fills with information. There is no end to what you can learn. On the other hand, wisdom is about taking things away.
As you put your knowledge to use, you eliminate the facts that don’t apply to the current situation. You eliminate things that don’t work in reality. You throw away theories and assumptions. In the end, the picture is much more apparent.
Difference #3: Internal vs. External
Knowledge is gained from external sources such as books, teachers, and videos. Wisdom, however, is achieved internally by applying judgment, thought, and analysis. You may know that a person with a clogged heart valve has the best course of action to replace it. However, this is for an otherwise average, healthy person.
Knowledge is gained from external sources such as books, teachers, and videos.
Wisdom tells you if you are looking at a person who has terminal cancer, who is at high risk for anesthetic and is already wearing a pacemaker, then surgery of this type is beyond dangerous. Wisdom says don’t do it.
Difference #4:Consider the Senses
Knowledge comes from what you can gather with your five senses: observation, hearing, taste, etc. Wisdom comes from internal senses, such as emotional responses or feelings garnered from experience with the situation.
Knowledge tells you that someone who is drowning needs to be rescued. Wisdom tells you that if you can’t swim, you shouldn’t jump in and attempt it yourself.
Difference #5: Passive vs Active
Knowledge is absorbed. You can watch, listen, or read and gain knowledge. On the other hand, wisdom requires action. You need to put the knowledge you have gained to the test.
You need to use judgment, draw conclusions, and then change your behavior accordingly. You can’t gain wisdom without actively experiencing something.
Which is Better… Knowledge or Wisdom?
It can be challenging to determine whether knowledge or wisdom is better. It will all depend on the situation. Many people go through life without wisdom. But everyone has a certain amount of expertise.
However, you need to consider that a person with just knowledge may still be making the same mistakes at fifty that they made at twenty. Those with wisdom learn from their mistakes, analyze the situation, and try something different. In the end, wisdom makes for a smoother life.
By striving for wisdom, we can find more room within ourselves to increase our knowledge and make that knowledge worth learning. Wisdom is what we all seek in the end.
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One type is instrumental in a person’s success, while the other holds people back from doing great things.
Briefly, someone with a growth mindset believes that their hard work, perseverance, love of learning, and willingness to improve are the key to reaching their goals.
Meanwhile, the opposite is the fixed mindset. This is the belief that people are born with a limited set of talents, intelligence, and other abilities.
People with a fixed mindset believe that the degree of success anyone can achieve in their life is defined by the whatever skills they were born with.
A fixed and growth mindset quiz can help determine your dominant mindset.
We’ve rounded up seven of the best quizzes for this article. These quizzes have been adapted from Dr. Dweck’s work on mindsets. The results will give you a general idea of whether you have a growth or a fixed mindset.
This quiz contains 15 questions to help determine the type of mindset you currently have. For each question, you will rate how strongly you agree or disagree with a given statement.
At the end of the quiz, you will receive an interpretation of your score and several suggestions on how you can shift your mindset into a more positive one.
The quiz takes 5 to 10 minutes, and some of the questions require honest self-reflection.
This quiz also has 15 statements that you must rate on a scale of 0 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) to determine whether you have a growth or fixed mindset.
At the end of the quiz, you’ll be asked to enter an email address where they can send the quiz results.
In the email, you’ll be informed about your mindset and given a description of it. You’ll also be told how the mindset influences different aspects of your life.
It takes an average of six minutes to answer this quiz.
This self-administered questionnaire for finding out if you have a growth mindset or fixed mindset contains 16 questions.
Each item is given a rating based on whether you strongly disagree or strongly agree.
A score sheet at the end of the questionnaire describes the mindset you most likely have.
Answering the questionnaire and calculating your points typically takes between 10 and 15 minutes.
This survey form has eight questions that must be rated on a scale from 1 (strongly agree) to 4 (strongly disagree). The results help determine your beliefs about intelligence and character.
Using this tool to determine your mindset takes at least 5 minutes.
A scoring interpretation sheet accompanies the questionnaire. Depending on your score, you’ll know if your mindset is a:
Growth mindset with some fixed ideas
Fixed mindset with some growth ideas
This assessment tool recognizes that achieving a growth mindset is an ongoing journey.
The results of this quiz will help determine if you are already on your way to having a solid growth mindset or if you still need to do some work to jumpstart your self-improvement.
This quiz has the right questions. It would be best if you chose whether you agree or disagree with the statements presented.
The results are given immediately after you complete the quiz and pinpoint areas where you need to work on developing a growth mindset.
This quiz can be finished in 5 minutes. It does not tell you outright whether you have a growth or a fixed mindset but instead provides helpful suggestions to spark your interest in self-improvement.
This quiz is designed to reveal whether you have a growth mindset.
There are 15 questions to answer, and your score determines your mindset.
The score sheet is at the bottom of the quiz page, immediately after the final question. It describes the growth mindset and the fixed mindset.
Finally, this online mindset quiz is designed to provide insights into your beliefs about intelligence and learning.
It has 20 questions. To answer each question, move the slider bar to either “disagree” or “agree” with the statement.
The results are presented immediately after you take the quiz. They tell you whether you have a growth or a fixed mindset.
A percentage graph provides a visual representation of your overall score.
In addition, there is an in-depth description of your mindset and suggestions for improvement if the results suggest that you have a fixed mindset.
Final Thoughts on How These Growth MIndset Quizzes Can Help
Achieving a growth mindset doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it is often an ongoing journey.
Taking a growth mindset quiz can help determine which areas of your life need work to fully align your beliefs and actions with the mindset that you wish to have.
If you need more resources about mindsets, you might want to check out the following articles:
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
When a child is born, they have a clean slate.
While they don’t know it yet, they’re faced with years of opportunity to create a fitting and unique life for themselves. Unfortunately, many of us don’t realize until much later in life just how much control we have over the directions of our own lives. Part of this is because we are stuck with a fixed mindset that dictates that failure is the end all and be all of any experience.
You know that your muscles grow and develop the more you challenge them–well, your brain goes through the same process. When you struggle to lift a weight, you’re setting your body up to build muscle. And when you’re struggling to grasp a concept or master a skill, you’re setting up your brain’s capability to adapt and grow in response to your efforts.
Why Is it Important to Help Children Develop a Growth Mindset?
We can all choose to look at the world in one of two ways: a way that makes us feel happy and capable or makes us feel defeated and powerless. One of the greatest things you can instill in a child that will contribute to their happiness and success down the road is a growth mindset. With a growth mindset, children are confident in learning and engaging with the unknown.
Those with a growth mindset know that with hard work, they can improve at anything. Unlike a fixed mindset, a growth mindset encourages children to view failures as learning opportunities. When a child is raised with a growth mindset, they’re invited to thrive on challenges and to continue to stretch their abilities beyond where they stand today, which cultivates a love for learning.
Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychology professor, developed the growth mindset concept. She posits that students who have a growth mindset—that is, students who believe that their intelligence is fluid—tend to be more successful in school than those who believe their intelligence is set at birth. By focusing on learning and creating a growth mindset environment for our kids, we can help them develop and reach their potential.
Because the language we use while talking to our kids has a profound impact on their attitude and mindset, let’s examine some growth mindset phrases you can use to encourage your children or students.
30 Growth Mindset Phrases to Encourage Children
1. “Well done. I noticed how hard you worked on that project.”
This statement focuses on praising a child’s process instead of their final product. Even if a child’s result isn’t perfect, praising them for their hard work and applaud them for learning along the way is best. The important thing is how a child approaches a challenge, not how successful they are.
2. “Let’s problem-solve together.”
Children may think that asking for help is a sign of weakness. However, offering support during a process when a child seems stuck can help that child come up with a solution instead of getting frustrated and giving up.
3. “You can do hard things.”
Children often shy away from trying things that seem too difficult. Encouraging children to try seemingly tricky tasks is a great way to show them they may be more skillful than they originally believed.
4. “What did you learn?”
Asking a child what they learned after an experience can help them reflect on what they could have done differently and what they will improve on moving forward. Reminding children of their consistent learning will also show them that they’re growing with each experience.
5. “Thanks for your effort on that task.”
Coupling value with a child’s effort instead of their results will start changing what the child views as being important. Over time, the child will start to appreciate perseverance over perfection, which can help children build the resilience that’s needed for their future success.
Recognizing a child’s effort instead of the result will help change the child’s perception of what is important.
6. “You’re on the right track.”
This statement can encourage children who feel like they’re not getting anywhere when trying to finish a project or reach a goal. It confirms for them that they are making progress. This phrase helps cultivate a growth mindset because it helps children attribute success to their efforts rather than their abilities. They’re receiving praise for their work that’s been done so far.
7. “What went well?”
When helping kids reach their potential, it’s important to focus on the positives. Don’t just focus on what a child has done wrong and what needs to be changed. Consider what they did right and how they can translate that into other areas of the problem or even amplify that success in some way.
8. “I believe in you.”
While children may not believe in themselves, having an adult tell them that they have faith can encourage them to try. Supporting a child through their best efforts can motivate them to value perseverance and hard work.
9. “…yet.”
If a child says they can’t do something, it’s uplifting to remind them that they can’t do it yet. This doesn’t mean they can’t ever do it. The word ‘yet’ is mighty in fostering a growth mindset.
10. “It’s ok to make mistakes.”
Remind children that making mistakes is not only acceptable but encouraged. When children engage in a productive struggle, they learn. Children who know that it is okay to make mistakes approach challenges with confidence and are willing to take risks.
11. “Can we come up with a different strategy?”
If a child is struggling with a task, helping them troubleshoot their strategy can demonstrate that they can take a new approach to success. Children need to learn how to strategize so they look at problems from various angles and don’t give up when faced with failure.
12. “You have unlimited tries.”
If children know they can try as many times as they need, they’re more likely to brainstorm and be willing to fail a few times.
13. “Let’s do some brain training.”
Reiterating to a child that they can develop and strengthen their skills through practice by using this catchy rhyme can help them memorize the phrase and recall it later, reinforcing their belief in it.
14. “This task will take some time and effort to achieve.”
You can give a child a heads-up that a task will be challenging. This will help set their expectations appropriately and reduce the chance that they will give up if they aren’t immediately successful.
15. “Did you face any fun challenges today?”
Asking this question will encourage your child to perceive challenges as positive, inspiring them to seek out challenges and solve problems throughout the day.
16. “Everything is difficult before it is easy.”
This is a good reminder for children to practice something to improve their skills. If they look back on things they have improved upon in the past, it can provide good anecdotal evidence of the truth in this saying.
17. “Aim for progress, not perfection.”
Teach children that the goal is to get a little stronger each day. This can help simplify unachievable goals by focusing on the small efforts one can make today that will eventually lead to success.
18. “Your mistakes show me that you are trying.”
Children long for the approval of their parents and teachers. Praise the effort that your child is putting forth, no matter what the result is, to show your acceptance. By affirming that a child’s mistakes have a positive outcome, they will be more willing to make them.
19. “Your answer is correct. What strategy did you use?”
This helps children focus on the process rather than just the end result. It’s important for them to not only fix their mistakes but also reflect on what they did right.
20. “Let’s give each other feedback.”
You can help a child develop a growth mindset by offering honest feedback. However, don’t focus too much on what went wrong. Instead, emphasize how the child can learn from their errors so they don’t associate negative consequences with making mistakes. Please encourage them to give you feedback as well.
Offering honest feedback can help your child develop a growth mindset.
21. “It is ok to feel frustrated.”
When a child faces failure, it’s an excellent time to teach them how to dig deep to find their inner strength. Instead of simply saying it’s ok, validate their feelings of frustration and help them find comfort in the discomfort of failure. Meanwhile, encourage them to consider other strategies or solutions.
22. “You are improving, I can tell you’re practicing!”
Reinforcing the relationship between practice and improvement will help encourage children to have discipline and keep working toward their goals.
23. “Nice try!”
This phrase validates a child’s efforts–no matter the outcome.
24. “Great use of your resources!”
People with a growth mindset are not afraid to ask for help and understand that self-advocacy is essential to their future success. When children feel safe asking for help, they can make significant progress. With the right guidance, children can learn to sharpen their communication skills and confidently use their resources.
25. “I admire your patience.”
Working through failure can undoubtedly test one’s patience. While giving up is an easy way out that many people prefer to take, being persistent in solving a problem separates the high achievers from the rest of the bunch.
26. “How does it feel to be so close to reaching your goal?”
Asking this question will invite a child to stop and consider their feelings and sense of pride for their hard work. Sometimes, a little reminder of how far someone has come can motivate them to finish strong.
27. “I like your determination!”
Acknowledging a child’s determination to succeed can help them maintain positive energy.
28. “Think about where you were _____ ago, and look at you now!”
Whether it was a week or a year, this can help children reflect on their progress and maintain hope for their future success.
29. “Let’s reflect on what you did.”
When children take the time to reflect deeply on their experiences and challenges, they can identify gratifying experiences as well as things they may aspire to do differently in the future. Either way, this encourages children to focus on their process.
30. “What could you improve?”
Encouraging children to seek out areas that could use improvement will reinforce the importance of a process rather than just the outcome. Continuously doing this can instill a habit of continuous improvement.
Final Thoughts on Growth Mindset Phrases to Encourage Children
Your child’s growth mindset can decide between success and failure. The concept of a growth mindset encourages children to overlook the grief or discomfort associated with failure to gain enthusiasm about their future success. Using these phrases to instill a growth mindset will help your child become confident in their abilities and encourage them to keep trying instead of giving up.
More Lessons in Creating a Growth Mindset:
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
Chances are, you’ve come across stories of near misses. People accidentally missing their exit only to avoid the massive pile-up on the freeway. Or waking up late for their flight only to miss a crash.
There’s a name for this phenomenon. It’s called the “burnt toast theory.”
This simple concept, inspired by a common culinary mishap, can transform how you see life’s detours. And it can help you turn your setbacks into potential stepping stones.
What Is the Burnt Toast Theory?
The “burnt toast theory” meaning has less to do with a breakfast blunder and more to do with how you view setbacks.
It suggests that the seemingly inconvenient happenings in your life, like burning your toast in the morning, could be happening for a reason you don’t yet understand. Maybe that extra time you spend remaking your toast allows you to avoid a person you don’t want to run into.
That, in a nutshell, is the burnt toast theory explained. And it’s no wonder it’s making the rounds on social media.
“I’ve often struggled with accepting things that are out of my control, says Faye, whose TikTok video on the topic has amassed over 1.2 million views. “Adopting [the burnt toast theory] and really thinking about when I might be upset about something that is out of my control has really grounded me.”
It encourages you to view the setback as a potential redirect. Much like the butterfly effect, a nudge from the universe can save you from something detrimental or steer you in a positive direction.
In fact, research shows that there are benefits to reframing negativity. One study, for instance, shows that people who are good at finding the upside in negative events experience lower stress levels, greater resilience, and even improved physical health.
“Our mind has a very interesting ability to notice only the things that we focus on,” explains Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani, the co-founder of Mindvalley and trainer of From Awesome to Flawesome Quest.
However, if you allow yourself to see the silver lining in a “burnt toast” moment, you’ll understand that they’re really opportunities for learning and growth, not dead ends.
What is it not?
While this concept reinforces positive thinking, it’s important to distinguish it from blind optimism, toxic positivity, or even spiritual bypassing.
The thing is, the burnt toast theory doesn’t deny the frustration of setbacks. Nor does it claim every inconvenience has a silver lining.
It’s more about acknowledging the potential for hidden benefits and fostering acceptance of what’s outside your control. What’s more, it helps you adopt a more open-minded approach to life’s curveballs.
5 Examples of the Burnt Toast Theory in Real Life
The burnt toast theory happens all the time in real life. Here are a few, from major events to serendipitous moments:
1. Near misses and altered plans on 9/11
The events of 9/11 were undeniably horrific. However, there are stories out there that demonstrate the burnt toast theory in action.
Many people who were meant to be in the World Trade Center towers were delayed that morning or had a change of plans due to various reasons (missed trains, car trouble, etc.). The wrenches in their plans, though frustrating at the time, ended up saving their lives.
2. Wrong seat, right encounter
No doubt, a seat mix-up on a plane can be super frustrating. But what if it leads you to meet the love of your life?
That’s exactly what happened to Darcy McGaffic. She was supposed to sit in an aisle seat but ended up in the middle at the back because she let a man sit next to his anxious wife.
This small act of kindness introduced her to Scott Germond, her seatmate for the next five hours. They connected instantly, sharing jokes and stories.
Although they parted ways at the airport, the story didn’t end there. Driven by a sense of what could be, both placed “missed connection” ads in local papers. Thanks to them—and a bit of serendipity—they reconnected, leading to marriage and twins.
3. Flight delay saved his life
Ahmed Khalid narrowly escaped disaster by missing the doomed Ethiopian Airlines flight bound for Nairobi, all thanks to a flight delay in Dubai. He was supposed to connect through Addis Ababa but ended up on a later flight due to the initial delay.
When Ahmed finally arrived in Nairobi, his father, Khalid Bzambur, greeted him with overwhelming relief.
4. Matt Damon meeting his wife
It’s a well-known fact that Matt Damon met his wife, Luciana Barroso, while he was filming Stuck on You in Miami. Their chance meeting happened at a bar where she was working as a bartender.
Ironically, Damon only went to the bar because his crew members convinced him to go out after a long day on set. This peculiar turn of events led to a meaningful life change.
5. Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani’s move to New York
Imagine moving to a big, bustling city like New York with dreams of making it, only to find out that things don’t always go as planned. This happened to Kristina when she moved from Estonia at 25.
Full of confidence, she soon faced a harsh reality. Employers in New York didn’t recognize her university credentials; she struggled with visa issues; and some even doubted her English skills. As a result, she couldn’t land a job.
Thankfully, this setback had a silver lining. “Since I had so much time on my hands,” she shares, “I ended up helping Vishen to start his business and got involved in it.”
And it eventually led to them creating Mindvalley.
How Can It Help You?
Burnt toast, a missed train, your child needing a last-minute diaper change… A million things could go wrong. No doubt, it’s easy to feel frustrated, leaving you wondering, “How can the burnt toast theory help me?”
It’s simple, really. It equips you to handle the curveballs life throws at you. Here’s how:
1. It reduces frustration
The brain, as Kristina explains in her Mindvalley Quest, often uses coping mechanisms like denial or anger to handle unpleasant situations.
“When the reality is not what you expect it to be, it is a dangerous situation because it might elicit some very unpleasant emotions in you, maybe even painful emotions in you,” she points out. “So the brain comes in and starts distorting your reality so that it is easier to cope with it.”
These reactions, while understandable, can escalate negative emotions and cloud your judgment.
The great thing about the burnt toast theory is, it encourages you to consider the possibility of a positive outcome from a negative event. It allows you to step back and see the bigger picture.
That, in turn, helps lessen the initial emotional sting, allowing you to be kind to yourself and refrain from getting overly upset about a minor inconvenience.
2. It increases openness to new things
The burnt toast theory challenges the brain’s tendency to cling to absolutes, a common trait of perfectionism. Kristina explains that the brain’s reticular activating system makes our lives so much easier, but it also “keeps us trapped in our own perception of reality” (or, in her words, “in our delusion”).
“Whatever you believe in, your brain is going to seek it out and prove it to you over and over and over again,” she adds. “And that’s why it’s sometimes so hard to break out of that.”
But with the burnt toast theory, you tend to question the assumptions. Maybe a missed train leads to a chance encounter, or burnt toast forces you to try a new breakfast recipe.
By considering these possibilities, you become more adaptable and open to the surprises life throws your way.
3. It boosts resilience
Minor annoyances can be seen as temporary inconveniences. Better yet, something potentially great can come out of them.
Looking at them in this light helps you be better prepared to handle them, especially when you face bigger challenges in life. It’s somewhat like training yourself.
“Your life is never going to be completely without any problems, without any pain,” Kristina says. “So the question is not really whether you have painful experiences in your life. The question is, what do you do with those experiences?”
By actively trying to find meaning in these moments, you can build your resilience and grow as a person. This way of thinking turns those tough situations into chances to become stronger, both emotionally and mentally.
What Are Some Limitations of the Burnt Toast Theory?
No doubt, the burnt toast theory has its upsides. But it’s equally important to acknowledge its limitations.
Here are some things to consider:
Overlooking serious problems. The theory shouldn’t be used to downplay significant issues. Accidentally burning your toast might be a minor inconvenience, but major setbacks require a different approach.
Denial of negative emotions. It’s okay to feel frustrated or disappointed; acknowledging these feelings allows you to process them in a healthy way. However, this theory shouldn’t be used to suppress negative emotions entirely.
Unrealistic expectations. The reality is, not every situation has a silver lining. While the theory encourages looking for the positive, it shouldn’t lead to unrealistic expectations.
As Kristina says, “The way we experience life depends on our perception of reality.” Where there’s sunshine, there’s bound to be rain. So it’s important to find a balance between optimism and realism.
Let Your Change Do the Talking
The burnt toast theory is a powerful tool for everyday challenges. However, true growth comes from embracing your whole self.
If you’re looking for a deeper transformation, Kristina Mänd-Lakhiani’s book, Becoming Flawesome: The Key to Living an Imperfectly Authentic Life, may be just the thing you need. She shares her journey and practical tools to help you:
Silence your inner critic and discover your true self.
Embrace your “flawsome” nature and unlock true happiness.
Thrive as the unique person you are.
The best part? You can get access to a free chapter today and start becoming your most flawesome self.
As Kristina says, “Life is unpredictable. The best thing you can do is get the best out of whatever life throws at you.”
If you’re reading this, you’re probably quite ambitious.
If you’re a business owner, there’s a good chance that you’re always on the lookout to expand and improve not just the bottom line but also other aspects of your company, such as customer service, product development, or marketing.
If you’re an employee, you’re ready to take the courses and read the books that will take you from where you are to where you want to go. You’ll do what it takes to rise to a position that you have your eye on.
But is ambition enough?
It will work only when you’re fired up, enthusiastic, and ready to take on the world.
What about the days when you’re feeling low? What about the days when you can barely inspire yourself to get out of bed in the morning, let alone confront the tasks on your to-do list and the appointments on your calendar?
Those are the days when you need something extra to motivate you and keep going, no matter the challenges you face.
Find out how to get anything you want using these five power tools.
1. Staying Positive
This is not about toxic positivity, insisting on looking at the “bright side,” and refusing to take action even when everything is falling apart.
Being optimistic is about taking note of what went wrong, learning from it, and moving on. No dwelling or beating yourself up over the past, but looking ahead and knowing when you need to go into problem-solving mode.
A positive outlook will speed up your journey to success because you’re not wasting time worrying about what’s already happened. You’re too busy fixing mistakes and taking the next step.
2. Recognizing Self-Motivators
Successful people always pick themselves up, brush themselves off, and go, “What else you got?” These are the people who refuse to stay down, no matter how many curveballs life throws at them.
So if you’re wondering how to get anything you want in life, find these self-motivators and spend more time with them.
You’ll learn how they handle failure and frustration, the two most dangerous pitfalls on the road to success. This will help you understand what it takes to get there yourself.
3. Being Comfortable with Discomfort
You have to be. Otherwise, you’re going to get stuck inside your comfort zone, and that’s pretty much a death sentence for success. Many extremely talented people end up unfulfilled and disillusioned because they are too afraid to venture out of what they already know.
The comfort zone traps even the smartest people. It’s easy to get caught up in it, especially when you’ve already managed to achieve a certain degree of success.
You tell yourself that you’re happy with what you’ve got. You don’t need to try new things, learn more, or expand your horizons. This is the kind of thinking that will make you slip into a routine that leads to failure.
Because the truth is, there is no comfort zone. You’re either moving forward or falling backward. You can’t stay where you are forever and hope to sustain your success.
Learn to embrace the discomfort of reaching for more, building healthy habits, and improving yourself. When you do this, you will never get left behind.
4. Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize
Successful, motivated people have a laser-sharp focus on achieving goals. They find ways to keep themselves on target as they continue to do the daily, mundane tasks that will get them to where they want to go.
You can’t run a marathon if you haven’t taken the time to do the dull, everyday work of training. It’s this training period that the unsuccessful have trouble with. They can’t motivate themselves to wake up every morning, rain or shine, get out there, and do what it takes to strengthen their bodies and sharpen their minds.
Instead of focusing on the end goal, they get distracted by the dreary, day-to-day work of having to train again and again.
So, for instance, if your goal is to create a seven-figure business, what’s your big prize? Do you want to change the lives of the ones you love? Do you want to help save the environment or protect wildlife? Do you want to help educate children around the world?
Find a prize that will drive you through all that boring daily work that needs to get done, and never take your eyes off it.
5. Quitting Judgment and Blame
One of the best ways to stay motivated and stick to a routine is to make sure that you take ownership and responsibility for all that you do and everything that happens.
For instance, if you’re looking to get a promotion at work but someone else beats you to it, you don’t waste your time and energy talking about how unfair you think it is. You need to be too busy looking at alternate ways to achieve what you want. Maybe that’s moving to a new department in your company or switching jobs altogether.
Blaming and judging should not be part of your vocabulary because they will waste the energy and time you could use to start taking action to achieve your goals.
The world isn’t fair, and it will never be. That’s the bad news.
But there is also good news; you’ll be amazed at how much can go your way when you start to take matters into your own hands to design your future.
Build the Business and Life You’ve Always Wanted
These tools will help you get yourself up when you feel knocked down. They will help you reinvigorate your focus when you’re dealing with challenges.
Most importantly, these tools will help you strengthen your motivation as you journey toward your life and business goals. They will teach you how to shape your destiny rather than leaving it up to other people or circumstances.
Are you ready to build the coaching business of your dreams? Join the free Become a Mindvalley Certified Life Coachmasterclass, where you’ll learn how to build a life of financial, time, and location freedom.
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
Want to know how you can help your children become more confident, more successful, and happier in life?
You might want to teach them about the growth mindset. This is a powerful concept that helps kids see every life experience as an opportunity to learn and become better.
What better way to introduce this concept than through engaging videos?
This article features a collection of growth mindset videos for kids that will help them grasp the concept.
Characteristics of People Who Have a Growth Mindset
How do you know if someone has a growth mindset? Here are some traits that serve as indicators:
1. They never shy away from opportunities to learn. A person with a growth mindset is always eager to learn something new.
2. They are hard-working. Those who have a growth mindset understand that it’s necessary to make an effort to achieve what they want.
3. They are not afraid to make mistakes. For them, mistakes are just opportunities to learn and improve.
4. They never give up easily. In addition to learning from their mistakes, people with a growth mindset never throw in the towel quickly. They use lessons from their initial failures to improve their efforts and ultimately succeed in their goals.
5. They have a strong belief in themselves. They believe they can succeed and become better versions of who they currently are.
Let’s check out some awesome videos for kids to inspire them to develop a growth mindset.
1. Fixed Mindset vs Growth Mindset
We created this video to provide a quick but in-depth description of two opposing mindsets: growth mindset and fixed mindset. Most people have heard of both, but they often don’t recognize how these mindsets operate in a real-life setting.
This video provides real-world examples to help you identify if someone you’re interacting with has a growth or fixed mindset.
2. The Choice
This video is one of my favorites. It presents the possible consequences of the choices we make in life.
Some of our choices lead to happiness and success, while others take us down the path to misery.
Here is a quote from the video, which is very significant in the development of a growth mindset:
“Small choices become actions, actions become habits, and habits become our way of life.”
This video showcases some of the most famous and influential people of all time who exhibit a growth mindset in the way they approach life. It also presents several comparisons between those who operate on the growth mindset and those who have a fixed mindset.
This video can be a nice intro for discussing how our mindset can influence our chance ofsuccess in life.
4. Mindset by Carol Dweck
This animated video showcases the core message of Dr. Carol Dweck’s book Mindset, where she first introduced the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets. The video is a great jumping off point for discussing the concept of mindsets with older kids.
5. Growth Mindset for Students
This cute, animated video is great for reminding smaller children that they don’t have to be afraid of making mistakes or not understanding their lessons the first time. It introduces the idea that we can become smarter by working at it.
This read-along story is a fun way to introduce a word that plays an important role in developing a growth mindset: yet.
The word “yet” is something that children can use while they’re working at self-improvement to signal to others and themselves that they are still growing, learning, and working to become the best versions of themselves.
7. Don’t Give Up
“Don’t give up. Keep on trying. You’re gonna make it.”
This video from Sesame Street, featuring Bruno Mars, encourages children to keep on trying when things seem hard at first.
It is a wonderful example of the growth mindset in action, as we see several Sesame Street residents trying new things for the first time and often being challenged by what they are trying.
8. The Mindset of a Champion
This TEDx Talk, delivered by Carson Byblow, a 5th grader studying in Bulgaria, is about the mindset of people who manage to overcome challenging experiences and come out as winners. Carson uses Michael Jordan as one of his examples of people who experienced a lot of failures before achieving success.
He also shares his own story of how shifting his mindset helped him overcome a challenge in student life. This video can serve as an awesome inspiration for other children who encounter the same problems.
9. Developing a Growth Mindset
Looking for a fun and engaging way to help teach your children about the growth mindset? This video does the job with sparks, sizzles, and explosions.
In Dr. Nagler’s Laboratory, young viewers learn that their brains are capable of growing stronger by learning stuff, especially by learning through mistakes. In this way, they get smarter and become more capable of doing awesome things.
10. Soar
This heartwarming short film shows the growth mindset in action. It portrays a young inventor who struggles to perfect her latest invention.
A new friend arrives and needs her help. The inventor must work to overcome the discouragement she feels over her failed invention to help the new arrival.
11. The Growth Mindset
This quick introductory video about the growth mindset is a wonderful way to open discussion about the concept with older kids. It provides a definition of the growth mindset and lists traits exhibited by people who practice it.
Furthermore, this video suggests several famous people throughout history who can be role models for possessing a growth mindset.
Finally, the video provides wonderful suggestions of self-talk based on the growth mindset.
12. The Power of Believing That You Can Improve
Here’s a TED Talk from Dr. Carol Dweck herself on the power of “yet.” In this video, we witness Dr. Dweck sharing examples of how life-changing the word “yet” is when applied in different areas of students’ and young people’s lives.
13. You Can Learn Anything
This short video has the power to inspire children and adults alike about our inherent power to learn anything.
It reminds us that even the greatest and most famous people encountered failures before they became great. They learned from their mistakes and went on to make wonderful contributions to the world.
This is the message we want to share with our kids—that they also have the potential to be great. All they have to do is be open to the idea that they can learn anything.
Final Thoughts on Growth Mindset Videos
We hope that this collection of growth mindset videos can help open a discussion with your kids about this concept.
Parents, teachers, and caregivers have an important role in helping kids develop a growth mindset. This is an awesome tool to help children love learning, never stop being curious, and believe in their own abilities.
Here are more resources about the growth mindset you might want to explore:
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
If your colleague were to earn the promotion that you were hoping for, would you be genuinely happy for them? Or would you feel envious and like you’re not good enough?
Or, if you were just shy of meeting one of your goals, would you feel defeated or would you reflect on some opportunities that you could potentially learn from?
But if your fixed mindset hasn’t budged, there is still hope for you to change that.
So in this article, we are going to provide an overview of the growth mindset and then discuss how you can adopt this mentality by reciting growth mindset statements. Then we will look at 15 examples of growth mindset statements for you to recite each day.
Let’s get started.
What Is a Growth Mindset?
First introduced by Stanford Psychologist, Carol Dweck, the idea of a fixed vs. growth mindset defines one of our most fundamental beliefs about ourselves. A “fixed mindset” assumes that we are born with the amount of talent, ability, and intelligence that we will ever have.
Because these personal characteristics won’t change with practice or experience, success only confirms one’s inherent intelligence, and displays how each person compares to their equally fixed peers.
This means that working to be successful and avoiding failure act only to help people maintain their perception of their own abilities.
Alternatively, having a growth mindset inspires people to view failure as an opportunity for growth rather than proving the limits of one’s innate intelligence.
Having a growth mindset takes the perceived restrictions off of one’s inherent abilities, and marks a starting point from which that person can grow.
People who have a growth mindset are better equipped to bounce back from inevitable setbacks and be resilient in the face of change. Having this mentality allows you to recognize that hard work and determination will help you accomplish any goal that you set out to achieve.
It allows you to believe that your true potential is unknown, and it’s impossible to predict everything that you could accomplish with enough passion, hard work, and training.
This means that this mindset can ultimately help determine your happiness and satisfaction with life, making it an important predictor of your overall well being.
The video below shares effective strategies you can try to develop your growth mindset:
Because of this, you’ll want to make every effort to develop a mentality that is the most advantageous to you. Let’s look at why you should use statements or affirmations to help you solidify this.
Why You Should Recite Statements to Attract a Growth Mindset
If you feel like you’re stuck with a fixed mindset, you can change this by reciting (or writing down) growth mindset statements every day.
This is a really simple–yet very effective–exercise that you can do to challenge your fixed mindset and reset your subconscious mind to think in a way that eliminates your current limitations and opens up new opportunities for success.
According to Walter E. Jacobson, M.D., a Los Angeles-based psychiatrist, motivational speaker, and best-selling author, reciting positive statements every day can help you attract the mentality–and ultimately, life–that you want.
Hearing yourself say these statements will encourage positive changes in your thinking and behavior.
Growth mindset statements can not only act as a source of inspiration, they can also be simple reminders for you to live with this attitude.
Reciting these statements can help you focus your efforts and attention on making progress throughout the day, which will help promote positive and lasting change.
Let’s take a look at some examples.
15 Growth Mindset Statements to Recite Daily
1. Every mistake I make teaches me something new that brings me closer to achieving my goals.
2.I welcome new challenges in my life that will help push me to get outside of my comfort zone and try new things.
3. I appreciate any constructive feedback I can get because it gives me an opportunity to learn.
4.I strive to be like the people who have succeeded before me and I look up to my superiors.
5.Because I’m determined, I can do anything I put my mind to.
6. I have no excuses.
7. I don’t need other people to validate me or my work.
8. I know my purpose.
9. I am stronger than the impulses that bring me short-term gratification.
10. I’m going to work smarter, not harder.
11. I’m committed to the learning process.
12. I am in control.
13. I believe I can do anything I want to do.
14. I have a vision and I know what I’m working toward.
15. I am at my starting point.
Final Thoughts on Growth Mindset Statements
Once you’ve come up with your growth mindset statements, you have to say them (or write them down) at least once a day in order for them to be as effective as possible.
Some professionals suggest “bookending” your day by reciting your statements both first thing in the morning and right before you go to sleep.
Others say to write the statements down and put them in places that you see frequently throughout the day, like at your desk or on your mirror at home.
No matter what you do, make sure to be repetitive so your statements become a part of your subconscious being. This way, you’ll start to believe you have a growth mindset and you’ll act accordingly.
And if you’re looking for more resources to help you enhance your own growth mindset, be sure to check out these posts:
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
If you could snap your fingers and create a picture-perfect future for yourself, what would it look like?
Look beyond your initial thoughts of being a gazillionaire and owning all of the things.
But if you can’t quite put those thoughts aside, with whom are you sharing that life? And how did you get there?
Along with your growth mindset comes a solid belief that with perseverance, patience, and practice, you can close the gap between your current self and your visionary future. You believe that you can complete the necessary requirements to fulfill your ambitions–whatever that may look like for you.
This type of mindset, and your behaviors that stem from it, is impossible to obtain if you don’t believe in self-growth.
And while many once thought that everyone is born with a certain level of intelligence, modern research on intellect and the dynamics of neuroplasticity have demonstrated that people actually have the potential to continuously expand their knowledge, skills, and abilities.
And here’s the kicker: You are in control of your intelligence.
So let’s look a bit more at what self-growth is and then go over some personal challenges you can tackle to advance your progress toward living up to your full potential.
What Is Self-Growth?
Self-growth has been the subject of research and theories for centuries.
While many historical figures have come up with theories about how one can reach their full potential, they all involve an ongoing process of developing skills and gaining knowledge following the completion of a standard formal education.
In simple terms, self-growth is a journey one embarks upon to continually become a better version of oneself.
Now, since everyone has their own unique life goals, the concept of advancing your self-growth can feel relieving, while also feeling a bit complex–there is not an instructional manual that is catered to your values and passions.
But that’s part of the beauty of it: the possibilities are infinite – you can learn as little or as much as you want in any subject. And you will be embarking upon an unprecedented and personally meaningful life path throughout the entire process.
Self-growth is an individualistic process that can involve any combination of a variety of things, such as earning an academic degree, cultivating emotional self-regulation skills, or discontinuing bad habits.
And you can certainly increase your capacity for self-growth by making your plans as unique as you are so they mean something to you.
By planning and implementing specific actions and processes toward achieving your desired outcomes, you will ultimately improve your overall performance and success. This process requires a continuous practice of challenging yourself by integrating new endeavors into your life.
Here are nine personal challenges that will help you advance your self-growth so you can continue to make progress toward reaching your full potential.
9 Personal Challenges to Advance Your Self-Growth
1. Establish Your Vision
What do you want out of life? Set aside the previously mentioned gazillion dollars. Who and what do you want to become?
Don’t just envision it in your head–get it down on paper.
According to the Schwartz Theory of Basic Values, the process of discovering your life’s vision requires methodical planning involving three elements: creativity, determination, and action.
Achieving the vision that you create requires some self-reflection to fully understand yourself and what you want to accomplish, and continuously following through with your action plans for self-growth.
Watch the video below to learn about some self-awareness activities that will help you know yourself better.
Keep in mind that this process requires autonomy and a high level of self-sufficiency in your thinking and behavior–you can’t copy someone else’s.
But don’t set your vision in stone, because you will update this as you progress through life, have new experiences, and your priorities change.
2. Be Open to New Experiences and the Experiences of Others
Of course you need to experience new things in order to grow. If you stay in the same routine day after day and year after year, you’re not opening yourself up to anything aside from your routine.
By being open to new experiences, not only will you have the opportunity to learn new things, this process will also:
Additionally, having an openness to experiencing new things has been linked to a need for cognition, which is a desire to engage in new activities that are mentally engaging.
This includes activities like solving puzzles (which is a great exercise in cognition), finding new solutions to old problems, and analyzing new concepts.
Finally, those with high levels of cognition are less likely to fall for cognitive biases when listening to an argument, and are able to focus on aspects of the facts and ideas themselves, rather than the likability or position of the person speaking.
So by engaging in new experiences, you can undoubtedly grow in many ways– both personally and intellectually.
But why would you want to put yourself in danger in order to better yourself?
When you take a more comprehensive perspective, you can see there are a lot of different kinds of risks–some of which we engage in every day. But for self-growth, the need is to take a deliberate risk to necessitate a change in direction in your life.
You need to be willing to take risks and push yourself outside of your comfort zone.
You take this type of risk when you decide to quit your job to go back to school, accept a position on the other side of the country, or choose to commit yourself to another person.
All of these choices involve an element of uncertainty, a fear of the unknown, and maybe even some guilt for leaving something behind that you’ve come to know so well.
These risks involve giving up predictability, routine, and familiarity to possibly have a chance to grow.
You take this type of risk because you hope you can make your dreams come true by bridging the gap between where you are now and where your ultimate vision takes you. When you don’t take these types of risks, it can lead to regret.
Commitment Risks
Without making commitments, you will greatly limit your self-growth. The two types of commitment risks are relationship risks (i.e. getting married) and risks with making a commitment to a value (i.e. accepting accountability for a big project, investing in a stock, or investing a lot of time in something).
These are high-risk, high-reward opportunities that most of us take at some point that can result in either some kind of disappointment or a great advancement.
Self-Disclosure Risks
Self-disclosure risks involve revealing your true self such as your feelings, thoughts, and needs. This type of risk could include confronting a friend because you’re mad, or telling someone that you love them without being sure they will say it back.
You also take this risk when you admit to your supervisor that you made a mistake or failed to perform an important task. All of these put you in a position of potential rejection. But without taking these risks, you cannot be assertive to gain the things you want in life.
Taking risks requires you to make a conscious choice to take a chance with an element of uncertainty of the outcome. But the result of these risks will undoubtedly either put you ahead in life or help you learn how you may do things differently next time.
4. Self-Assessment
Self-assessment is among the most critical challenges to complete to advance your self-growth. People often evaluate their performances by judging their actions, but this only leads to self-criticism.
When you judge yourself, it doesn’t give you an action plan for improvement for next time. However, doing a self-assessment turns your focus to how you can improve whatever you’re trying to do.
So how can you do a proper self-assessment?
A self-assessment is different from self-reflection, in that self-reflection is more based on the past and self-assessment is meant to help you study your performance with the purpose of improving it for the future.
It is a proactive approach to self-growth with defined performance criteria measuring your strengths, improvements, and insights. The challenge involved with doing effective self-assessments really falls on your ability to be objective.
Let’s look at an example of a self-assessment.
Let’s say you just missed an important work deadline…again. So you want to improve your time management skills and reduce your propensity to procrastinate. Your first step in your assessment is to define the performance that you want to focus on, and why you want to improve it.
Then you need to determine what criteria you want to measure and the attributes for each, which could look like this:
Realizing the consequences of procrastinating by identifying each consequence and linking it with its drawback (for example, one consequence may be that your late work held your team up from moving forward with the next steps of the project).
How your work was compromised considering the amount of time you put into it (how many errors did you find after you turned your work in once you sat down to review it?)
Then do the numbers.
For the first bullet, exactly how many people did you hold up?
How many co-workers were impacted by your procrastination?
Secondly, how many errors did you notice?
How does this compare with the number of minutes you spent working on the project?
Similar to creating SMART goals, you want to define your criteria in a measurable way so you can track your progress for next time.
Your completed self-assessment will include your strengths (such as: you managed to turn in the work, even though it was late), your areas for improvement (your time-management skills), and specific steps you will take to improve (next time, schedule time as soon as the project is assigned to focus on creating a plan to complete it on time).
As you go through this process several times, you will be able to see how you can measurably and objectively do some things to advance your self-growth.
5. Ask Others For Feedback
Don’t just rely on yourself to assess your work. Get an accountability partner or ask a good friend or family member who knows you well to give you some constructive criticism about your work.
You will achieve your goals when you ask other people for feedback often–but you have to make sure to listen, even if you don’t initially agree. As you did above with your self-assessment, be very objective with your thoughts and be open to others’ opinions.
Both positive and negative constructive feedback will give you the valuable information that you need to make future decisions.
People who are successful often haven’t made it to the top of their game by themselves; they’ve consistently and actively requested feedback from customers, family/friends, clients, employees, etc.
Top performers are good at accepting feedback because they recognize the value of the insight that it provides.
6. Pay Attention to Your Body
If you’re trying to improve yourself, you need to focus on your whole self–meaning, what you put into your body, how you spend your time, and being active.
Self-growth is a holistic process, so in order to get the full benefits from your efforts, you need to make sure that you’re engaging in a whole mind, body, spirit endeavor.
Find an exercise regime that works for you and your schedule. Don’t force yourself into doing something you don’t enjoy–it will just increase your chances of putting it off. Also, make sure you’re fueling your body properly with whole foods that your body can actually use to give you clean energy.
Your mind is a tool that needs to be worked in order to function at a high level, and reading is one of the best ways to continue to learn and explore new concepts.
Engaging in these healthy living activities will support your other efforts to grow and improve yourself.
7. Spend More Time With People Who Inspire You
It can be hard to cut ties (or limit your interaction) with your childhood bestie. But if you have gone down completely different paths post-high school, be mindful of how the time you spend with that person is influencing your behaviors.
You may find these people in your own job or at networking events who work for your dream company. No matter how you get connected with them, take the opportunity to benefit yourself by learning from others.
As you know, SMART goals are an effective tool to use because they offer the clarity and focus that you need to stay motivated to achieve anything that you want. And, with defined objectives and a deadline, this isn’t something that you will put off until later…or…”some day”…
The video below provides a quick overview of SMART goal setting and several examples you can take inspiration from.
9. Be Patient
This might not be an active challenge that you can complete in a week, but it can certainly be a challenge for many. Going from your present self to your ideal self won’t happen overnight–and some of the progress may be very slow.
But while you may not see a difference in yourself from day to day, when you start looking back on past months and years, you will see how far you’ve come with your self-growth.
It is only with patience that you will continue to do the things that are necessary day in and day out while knowing that you may not experience immediate results.
To advance your self-growth, you have to be motivated and willing to work. However, once you start challenging yourself, you will see immeasurable results.
You will find a renewed sense of purpose in your life after learning new things. You will start to recognize that your long-term goals are within reach, and you will recognize how to use your full potential to benefit your life and your future.
And if you’re looking for actual challenges you can do, be sure to check out these articles:
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of being proactive is the NYC firefighters on 9/11.
They embody the idea of being proactive. They took it upon themselves to think strategically without wasting any time, they didn’t let feelings of being overwhelmed impact them, and they just went for it when they were faced with an unprecedented situation.
They were faced with a huge disaster, and each one of them made the decision between fight and flight. They didn’t sit back and watch the emergency unfold, they used their training to take charge of the situation and regain control.
On a much smaller scale, we can be more proactive in our everyday lives to accomplish more of what we want.
Similar to our articles on a growth vs. fixed mindset, people who are proactive are always seeking out new opportunities in life to learn, grow, and develop themselves so they can continue to improve, no matter what their age is.
So in this article, we are going to talk about the difference between being reactive and being proactive and look at the benefits of taking on a proactive attitude. Then we are going to look at 6 habits you can adopt to be more proactive in your life.
Let’s get started.
What Is the Difference Between Being Reactive and Being Proactive?
There are several aspects of life that are impacted by your proactive or reactive tendencies. In short, someone who is proactive has a certain attitude towards the world that allows them to take it on.
Being proactive requires one to accept responsibility for their life and take the initiative to change things as they deem necessary. Rather than allowing their circumstances to act as the driving force of their choices, people who are proactive live by their values and make their decisions accordingly.
People who are proactive act instead of wait for things to happen. They project themselves into the future and do things today that will benefit them tomorrow.
On the other hand, people who are reactive don’t take the initiative in situations. They let external factors lead the way. They take the back seat and react to things that are happening rather than trying to predict what’s going to happen in the future.
“I control my success. While I’m impacted by external stimuli, how I respond is up to me and always based on my values.”
“I depend only upon myself for my results.”
Reactive:
“This situation or its condition has caused my failure, it’s not my fault.”
“I act based on my feelings and my priorities often change.”
“I love making a good excuse to not do something.”
“I’m influenced by the people around me and I’m dependent on others. My success has to wait for other circumstances to occur.”
“I don’t have a sense of self because I depend on others.”
So what does this look like in the corporate world?
Reactive vs Proactive in the Corporate World
On an everyday basis, people who are reactive do the work they’re assigned and then sit around and wait for their next task to show up on their desk.
Alternatively, proactive professionals look for ways to improve their work and seek out opportunities to grow within their career.
When it comes time for a promotion, who do you think will get more consideration–the person who sits back and waits for assigned tasks, or the person who is a “go getter” and takes initiative to seek out and overcome change and keep up with the evolving world?
Think about how businesses as a whole need to be proactive in order to stay afloat. I’m sure you remember the popularity of flip phones back in the early 2000s.
What if one of the companies that made these phones figured that their business was doing great, so there was no need to make any changes in the upcoming years. Do you think that business would still be booming?
No, companies had to be proactive in staying ahead of the game and consistently uncover the next “bigger and better” product.
Being reactive and being proactive have one main difference: proactive people react before a situation occurs, therefore preventing an issue from ever arising. Reactive people wait until after things have gone downhill and then have to scramble to pick up the pieces.
Oftentimes, reactive people can see a problem on the horizon that they know they could step in to prevent, but because the problem hasn’t led to any damage yet, they choose to ignore it.
And sure, it takes energy and a lot of thinking and strategizing to be proactive, making it easier to wait for problems to arise and then dealing with them as they happen.
However, once those problems do come up, it’s a lot messier to deal with than it would have been to do the relatively small amount of work to prevent it.
Think of the person who spent years smoking without experiencing any serious side effects. While they know they’re causing damage to their body, they value the sensation they get from smoking over the potential long-term risks.
While a big problem may be brewing, it’s not here yet so they continue to smoke. A few years down the road, they develop lung cancer. They saw this coming and could have prevented it, but because they hadn’t been faced with the consequences yet, they gave in to this unhealthy impulse.
This same sequence of events can be translated into the corporate world. Not too long ago, every day at work was a race to the finish line for me.
I was bombarded with tasks all day, completely overwhelmed, and as soon as I got home, I would start dreading the next day.
I didn’t feel like I even had time to take a step back and look at the bigger picture of the problem: I had taken on more than I was ready to handle.
All day, every day, I was reacting to other people’s problems that needed to be solved and I was in no position to solve them myself. I was heading full speed ahead to becoming burnt out.
Once I did this, the little problems that I faced all day that had been adding up to a very stressful work situation were largely eliminated in exchange for sacrificing just ten minutes every morning to get myself together.
I’ve decelerated the rate at which I’m heading toward losing my mind and I’ve regained control over my professional life.
The truth is, problems will do one of two things: they will either manifest until they explode, or they can be resolved while they’re still manageable.
Think of how something in your life could be prevented with a proactive attitude. Do you see a little problem that could turn into a big problem in the future? Or, is there an opportunity that you could be taking right now but instead you’re sitting back and waiting for it to come to you?
There are many examples of instances in which being proactive vs. being reactive can dramatically change the outcomes in your personal and professional lives. Let’s take a look at some habits you can adopt to be more proactive in your life and reap the benefits of this frame of mind.
6 Habits to Be More Proactive in Life
1. Anticipate Problems
Think ahead as much as possible to address problems before they really manifest into large complications. There are a few ways you could do this.
If you’re in a service role of some sort, you may take the time to conduct customer satisfaction surveys to uncover some issues that you may not even be aware of and prevent them from ever becoming a large problem.
In other industries, you could take a step back to analyze problems that have come up in the past with tasks you do on a regular basis and modify your approach to secure these areas that are prone to issues.
You can also stay ahead of potential problems by taking the time to envision your projects and researching how other people may have successfully completed similar projects (or what mistakes people have made) in the past.
On a smaller scale, you can devote time every day to reviewing your to-do list to see if there are any tasks that seem to carry over from day to day.
Typically, if there is a task that you’re avoiding, it has the potential to become a problem in the future as the deadline is nearing. Waiting until the last minute to do things nearly always leads to stress and complications that could have been avoided.
2. Find Solutions to Problems
If you’re facing a problem that you didn’t anticipate, you can still be proactive in finding a solution. Start by brainstorming and troubleshooting the problem to identify when and how it started so you can quickly address the underlying cause.
Practice getting comfortable with making decisions and committing to a plan. From here, you will be able to determine the steps you need to take in the future to prevent problems from happening again or a plan to effectively handle the problem the next time you’re faced with it.
3. Plan
Tackle your day by making a plan rather than waiting for things to happen. This will help you maintain focus and not get sidetracked with irrelevant tasks.
Get into the habit of creating a to-do list at the end of every day for the things you want to focus on the following day. Consider the things that you’ve done that day compared to what you had planned on doing and prioritize your upcoming tasks by ranking them according to their importance.
Remember to set deadlines to help you plan and manage your priorities and break down large projects into smaller, manageable objectives.
Your to-do list will offer you an itemized look at what you should be working on to move closer to achieving your larger goals. It helps keep you focused and on track while reducing the risk of forgetting to do something important.
It’s important to have a grasp on your current commitments so you can assess whether or not you can take on additional tasks at any given time.
Creating SMART goals is essential when planning. The video below provides a quick overview of SMART goals and shows three examples for each of the seven areas of your life.
4. Work Efficiently
Developing methods to help do your work more efficiently can help you be proactive. Some examples of this could be:
Writing step-by-step procedural instructions for your major tasks in case someone needs to take over in your absence or developing a flowchart for critical operations
Being aware of policies and procedures that are in place so you know what to do in case you face an unexpected situation
Communicating with co-workers to collaborate effectively, avoid doing double work, and avert wasted time or resources
Stay organized by streamlining your processes, developing indexes, alphabetizing, color coding, maintaining files, or doing whatever works for you to make your work scannable
Outsourcing work that is labor-intensive
Review your existing processes on a regular basis to determine what is and isn’t working
Offer high-quality training to people who work for you
Working efficiently will help you be proactive because it will give you the time you need to focus on working intentionally toward your goals. The less time you have to spend looking for lost files or explaining how to do something to a coworker, the more time you will have to plan for the future.
5. Follow Up and Be Persistent
Following up and being persistent are critical factors of being proactive. It requires willpower to follow up on the things that will benefit you in the long run, especially if you’re not receiving a response or you’ve already gained the short-term benefit of the situation.
Reaching back out is required if you’re still waiting for a response after attempting to schedule a meeting, you haven’t heard back after a successful interview, or you’ve sent an important email that hasn’t been acknowledged.
Not only will this show the other person that the issue at hand is still relevant and important to you, it will also prompt them to take some sort of action to help you.
It’s also important to follow up with clients or customers you’ve worked for to maintain a positive relationship and secure future business. You can’t leave your clients high and dry as soon as they’ve paid for your product or service.
Having a plan will help you maintain focus and not get sidetracked with irrelevant tasks.
You need to further cultivate that relationship, whether that’s through email, social media, or picking up the phone and calling.
Following up when you’re going after the things that you want will show others that you’re taking initiative and you won’t quit until you’re successful.
When you’re facing change, make sure to analyze and understand why the change is occurring, what the potential impacts of the change are, and how you have to adjust to move forward effectively.
In order to be especially proactive, learn how you can communicate the change to others and teach them how to adapt as well. Relay a sense of understanding about why the change is taking place and what its benefits are.
And sometimes you have to take a step back and examine the big picture. Take a time out to re-evaluate your work or your strategy and regain the energy that you need to move forward.
If you’re handling an unresolved conflict with a family member, friend, or co-worker, instead of talking in circles, take a step back. Look at the big picture.
Look at the potential for misunderstanding. However you’ve been handling the conflict up to this point has not been effective in solving the problem. So take the time to come up with a new approach or look at the conflict with a fresh set of eyes.
If you’re able to do this, you may even recognize your own fault in the situation and fix it accordingly.
Final Thoughts on Reactive vs Proactive
It’s hard to go wrong when you plan ahead of time, you develop problem-solving skills, and you effectively communicate with your team.
When you become more proactive, you will recognize the influence you have over your own circumstances and gain control over your life.
Adopt these six habits to become more proactive in your life so you can reap the benefits of living the life that you want.
And if you’re looking for more resources to help you become more proactive in your life, be sure to read these articles:
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Unlike a static view of capability, a growth mindset flourishes when faced with challenges, viewing failure not as a sign of a lack of intelligence but as an encouraging platform for development and expanding current skills. At its core, a growth mindset is about the belief that one’s fundamental qualities are things that can be cultivated through effort, strategies and help from others.
Still, it isn’t uncommon for a lot of us to strive for success and avoid failure at all costs. We see it as a way of maintaining a sense of being smart or skilled. When we adopt a fixed mindset, challenges are avoided, effort is seen as fruitless, and persistence in the face of obstacles is minimal.
For entrepreneurs, adopting a growth mindset is not just beneficial but essential. The entrepreneurial journey is replete with challenges, uncertainties and setbacks. A growth mindset empowers entrepreneurs to embrace these challenges, learn from failures and persistently innovate and adapt. It transforms the way entrepreneurs approach their business — seeing opportunities where others see obstacles and continually evolving to meet the ever-changing demands of the market.
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
Looking for the right book to teach your kid about a growth mindset?
In today’s article, we’re sharing a curated list of growth mindset books that teach kids about the value of perseverance, hard work, making mistakes, and loving and believing in themselves.
These books help cultivate resilience in our children.
Resilience is a trait they need in order to cope with and overcome the challenges they’ll face as they make their way in the world. It’s best if they develop this trait early in life.
Briefly, a growth mindset is a belief that what we know can be improved on. It is also the belief that our intelligence can expand as time passes and we gain more experience.
Conversely, a fixed mindset is the belief that our intelligence, talents, and skills are set to a certain limit. It is the conviction that what we are at birth can not be changed.
Kids often experience a lot of pressure to excel. This happens whether they’re in school, at home, or with friends. Gary Rubinstein and Mark Pett’s book is what kids need to assure them that it’s okay to make mistakes and that perfection is overrated.
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes introduces us to Beatrice Bottomwell, a girl who has never made a mistake—ever! However, Beatrice eventually does make a mistake, during an important event.
The book encourages kids (and parents and teachers, too) to dream big. Furthermore, it shows that those who have big dreams will likely experience mistakes when fulfilling them—and the process of learning from mistakes can be fun.
The process of learning a new skill can sometimes be frustrating, especially if we’re not seeing immediate results. Kids are often prone to giving up when they don’t learn something fast enough.
In Whistle for Willie, we see the world through Peter’s eyes as he attempts to learn how to whistle for his dog Willie. Peter becomes more determined to learn when another boy who knows how to whistle gets Willie’s attention.
In this classic, beautifully illustrated children’s book, kids learn about the value of persistence.
3. She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton
If you need resources for kids—especially girls—related to speaking up, having ambitions, and believing in themselves, this book is worth considering. It is also a wonderful resource for lessons on persevering in the face of adversity.
She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World features the stories of 13 individuals who displayed courage amidst adversity and persisted until they reached their dreams. The women featured in the book include Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Sonia Sotomayor, and Oprah Winfrey.
This book celebrates American women who changed the course of history by standing up for what they knew was right and believing that they could take on the challenges on the path to a better world.
4. Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions and How They Came to Be by Charlotte Foltz Jones
The book is a compilation of familiar, every-day items that were discovered or created by accident. Take the potato chip, for example. A customer at a restaurant kept sending her order of fried potatoes back to the kitchen because “they weren’t thin enough.” Out of frustration, the chef sliced the potatoes very thinly before frying them. His recipe became a hit.
Kids will enjoy this interactive book that follows the story of Danny, a boy training to become a superhero, as he makes choices that impact his life in big ways. What Should Danny Do? is written in the style of a “choose your own adventure story.”
Through the outcome of every choice they make about Danny’s adventures, kids will realize how their own choices can affect their lives. They will also eventually grasp the value of making the right choices to make the day—and their lives—the way they want it to be.
6. After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) by Dan Santat
As a kid, have you ever wondered what happened to Humpty Dumpty after his great fall? This book takes that hypothetical question and explores a possible scenario in the life of one of the most famous nursery rhymes characters.
In After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again), Humpty Dumpty recovers from the fall, but was traumatized by the experience. He is now afraid of heights and can no longer function normally to enjoy the activities he previously loved doing.
This book explores how fear can paralyze us and what we can do about it if we want our lives back. It teaches kids about the importance of facing fears in order to move forward.
“Hooray for mistakes!” this book tells us. But what exactly happens when we make mistakes?
Beautiful Oops! is a wonderful teaching resource for showing kids how we can transform mistakes into beautiful creations, especially in art.
The book also provides inspiration for creative kids to see unconventional ways of creating art and transforming errors into something magnificent. It is packed with clever paper engineering—lift-the-flap pages, bends, folds, and smudges—that show kids the beautiful possibilities of a mistake.
The Most Magnificent Thing encourages kids to explore, create, invent, and try new things. Moreover, the book teaches young readers to appreciate hard work and perseverance.
The story is told from the viewpoint of a girl who loves to make things. However, things don’t go as she planned. After numerous frustrations, she decides to give up. Will she still be able to make the most magnificent thing?
The book is charmingly illustrated and depicts the girl’s emotions at every turn. It is also a good resource for teaching kids how to deal with their emotions.
9. I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids by Gabi Garcia
The affirmations contained in this book introduce kids to the practice of mindfulness. More importantly, this book teaches kids to value their self-worth.
In The Bad Seed, we are introduced to a self-confessed bad seed. He disturbs the peace. His manners and hygiene are an abomination. However, he was made that way by the circumstances in his past.
Unfortunately, when an opportunity for him to change arrives, others still think of him as a bad seed.
This book teaches several important lessons. It teaches kids the value of self-reflection. Furthermore, it demonstrates the negative effects of bullying. It also shows the impact of self-fulfilling prophecies and a fixed mindset.
Rosie Revere, Engineer is for those who have been told “no” repeatedly while pursuing their dreams. It teaches kids the value of keeping their passion alive for the things they care about, despite the challenges and setbacks on the way to achieving the things they want in life.
The story introduces us to Rosie Revere, a shy girl who loves to invent marvelous gizmos. She is afraid of showing her work to others for fear of failure, but all of that changes when she receives a visit from a formidable relative.
The book tells readers that “You can only truly fail if you quit.”
12. Unstoppable Me!: 10 Ways to Soar Through Life by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer and Kristina Tracy
Unstoppable Me!: 10 Ways to Soar Through Life encourages children to expand their thinking and make it limitless. Written by the father of motivation, Dr. Wayne Dyer, this book reflects his belief that all of us were born without limits, and children should tap into this rather than just trying to fit in.
Through this book, kids learn 10 important lessons about becoming unstoppable in going after their dreams. It assures young readers that they have greatness within them, no matter what!
The book also comes with questions to help reinforce its message and facilitate discussions about self-acceptance, believing in yourself, and persistence.
13. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids by Modern Kid Press
Children can benefit from being introduced to a gratitude habit early on. The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids is an avenue for cultivating this habit in young people.
It teaches them to look for the simple joys in life and appreciate them. The gratefulness prompts include looking for three things to be thankful for from the day. The book also encourages children to write about or draw the best parts of their days.
Children will be inspired by the story of Rumple Buttercup, a creature who has green skin, three strands of hair, and five crooked teeth. As far as appearances go, Rumple is weird.
Follow Rumple’s story as he discovers the marvels of individuality and the heartwarming magic of belonging.
15. Strong Is the New Pretty: A Celebration of Girls Being Themselves by Kate T. Parker
Kids need to see their potential, and what their futures can contain. They need the affirmation that what they are on the inside matters more than their physical appearances.
Michael Jordan’s name is synonymous with basketball itself. Many people admire him for his accomplishments on the basketball court, as well as his philanthropy.
The word “Yet” holds so much power and promise, and is a perfect growth mindset word. This book is for kids who feel frustrated over the things they cannot do yet.
The Magical Yet teaches kids how to transform a negative experience into a positive one. It encourages them to look for possibilities. The story invites them to embrace challenges they encounter for the valuable lessons they impart. In the end, we all have stuff we don’t know—yet.
This book is ideal as a classroom staple. Readers are encouraged to exercise their brains, just like their bodies. The book is an entry point to anatomy and provides a wonderful introduction to the parts and functions of the brain.
Most importantly, it encourages children to view mistakes as a very good way for brains to grow.
Kobi Yamada’s work shares techniques for dealing with problems. Often, when kids (and even grownups) encounter problems, they worry so much about them that they fail to look closely at what can be done to solve the problems.
Instead, they ruminate, and the problems appear to loom over them, becoming bigger and bigger. The more upset they get about the problems, the bigger they become.
This book offers a unique way of looking at problems, and a whole new way of looking at ourselves as well.
In The Dot, we meet Vashti, a kid who can’t draw. She knows for sure that she’s not an artist.
To get her point across, she makes a dot on her paper. However, Vashti must sign her dot, and when she does, something interesting happens. The book affirms the use of play and experimentation to overcome failure.
The story of Ursa the bear encourages children to dream big and never give up. It is a story of perseverance and believing in yourself, no matter what.
In Ursa’s Light, we meet Ursa, a bear who wants to fly. However, Ursa meets a lot of detractors as she works to make her dream a reality. Her initial attempts at flight have failed, but will her audition as a shooting star be the ticket to her dream?
Final Thoughts About Growth Mindset Books for Kids
Having a growth mindset is essential for success in life. Kids can benefit from learning about this mindset that can help them navigate life’s obstacles.
Books like the ones featured above are engaging visual tools for showing how the growth mindset is embodied and applied in different life situations. We hope you and your kids found a favorite title among those featured today.
And if you’re looking for more resources on how to teach the growth mindset to your kids, be sure to check out these blog posts:
There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.
When I was pregnant with my daughter, I was an active member of an online group with 72 other expecting moms, which was appropriately titled January 2015— the month our babies were due.
Many members used the space during the time they were pregnant to create their “birth plan” and bounce ideas off of each other.
Some women spent a significant amount of time crafting the perfect plan for how they were going to give birth, who would be in the room, and whether they were going to go natural or get the drugs.
I didn’t create an elaborate birth plan. I think because I was so nervous for that day to come that I was too scared to stare at it in the face. So when it actually did come in November of 2014, I was glad I hadn’t wasted my time.
Because I know my plan wouldn’t have included: complete a conference call while the nurse pushes me down the hall to the delivery room, but that’s certainly part of what happened that day.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m usually filled with anxiety as I consider the “what ifs” of the future. This is especially apparent when I’m packing for a trip, and upon returning home, half of our luggage remains untouched.
I have to wonder why I thought my child “just might need” a jacket in South Florida in mid-June. But I had to spend the time and energy worrying about the possibility that she could say she’s cold…and since there are no stores in Florida…
It’s in these situations where I really admire people who can roll with the punches in any situation.
I know I have an expert level of experience staying up all night wondering why a boyfriend hasn’t responded to a text or overthinking how I handled something at work that day–and how I will do it differently the next time that exact situation presents itself again.
But trying to change the past or predict the future are two things that make me feel pretty helpless. Because no matter how long I spend with my mind fixated on the issue at hand, somehow, the outcome doesn’t seem to be impacted by my mental energy. And, as it turns out:
“If a problem is fixable…then there is no need to worry. If it’s not fixable, then there is no help in worrying.”― The Dalai Lama
So what is the difference between a fixable and a non-fixable problem? Well, one of them you have some control over, and the other, you don’t.
In this article, we are going to talk about how you can build the mindset of only trying to control the things that you have some control over. But first, let’s talk a little bit about why this is important.
Why Should You Control What You Can Control?
Let’s start with addressing why you shouldn’t try to control the things that are out of your control.
Say you’re trying to find parking somewhere at an event that’s packed and you see a spot ahead where you think you can squeeze in if you parallel park your car just right. And then you pull up to the spot, and once you get a closer look, you see the space is about two feet shorter than your car is.
How much time do you spend sitting in your car, blocking traffic, being angry and frustrated that you can’t fit into the spot? How long do you spend sitting there trying to wish your way into it?
I would assume not a whole lot. Because, in that moment, you recognize there is nothing you can do to make that spot bigger (or make your car smaller) so you move on to look for something else.
The size of that parking spot is out of your control, and you are quick to realize that and move on. This is an objective fact that you can’t change. The same can be true for other factors in life, you just need to recognize what situations are out of your hands and which ones you can influence.
Not only will this help you feel empowered, it will also make you feel confident that you have the ability to influence outcomes andfeel a sense of achievement when the end result turned out the way it did because of you.
Because of this positive difference you can make, you don’t want to waste your mental energy on the things that are out of your control–you want to save it for when you can be useful and make a real difference.
But if someone has ever told you to “Let it go” or “Get over it” when you’re upset about something, you probably know that it’s easier said than done.
So let’s take a look at some strategies you can use to build this mindset.
1. Establish What You Can Control
When you feel like something is wrong, think about what (if any) impact you can make on the situation. Can you stop a storm in its tracks when it’s headed your way? No, but you can prepare for it to hit. When you turn your attention to what you can control, you will feel more empowered.
So what does this look like when you’re doing something that often feels defeating, such as job hunting?
Worrying about your unemployed future demise is draining, so instead, turn your attention to what you can control: the quality of your resume, the amount of networking you’re doing each week, and the number of job applications you’re submitting every day.
Or, what if you’re so focused on the fact that you got laid off from your last job that you can’t find it within yourself to move on? This type of rumination can not only lead to depression, it can damage your ability to effectively problem-solve.
Studies show that this type of behavior causes people to struggle to find satisfactory solutions to even hypothetical problems (i.e. “What if my next job pays less than my last job?”).
Furthermore, those who focus on trying to control the past are often so uncertain in their solutions to moving forward that they frequently fail to take any action at all.
Whatever the issue at hand is, adjust your attitude, goals, and how you spend your time appropriately to empower yourself to improve the situation.
Occupying your mind with trying to will someone to like you, make a hiring manager call you back, or keep a storm out at sea will only exhaust you and leave you feeling tormented.
Knowing yourself is the first step in establishing what you can control. Take a few minutes to watch the video below to learn about the five proven strategies to increase your self-awareness.
2. Practice Mindfulness
As stated above, having an awareness that there are some things you can control and some things you can’t is a big part of regaining the power you need to focus your energy toward the right areas, and this can be achieved through practicing mindfulness.
Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally paying attention to the present moment without passing any judgement. It’s about engaging with your surroundings and training your brain to observe your passing thoughts and feelings so you can accept what is.
Letting go of the idea that you can control everything gives you some energy back to focus on the things that you can control. Controlling your response to your passing thoughts and feelings involves taking a step back to be mindful of just how these things are impacting you and then altering your course.
Finally, practicing mindfulness has been shown to reduce self-judgment, which will allow you to be more open to making and learning from your mistakes.
After practicing mindfulness, you will be better prepared to be present in any given moment and be more accepting of your circumstances–even those that are beyond your control.
So while you may dislike your situation, if you can choose to accept it and focus on what’s in your control, you will come out on top.
3. Continue to Be a Learner
People who have agency over their circumstances are always learning and expanding their ability to learn by keeping an open mind and being collaborative with everything they do. This means you need to position yourself to meet new people, explore new ideas, and learn new skills.
Having a growth mindset and recognizing that you’re capable of learning and adapting to your surroundings can help you let go of your need for control and perfectionism because it can help you fight your fear of failure.
When you’re in the mindset of lifelong learning, you’ll realize that even on your worst days, you will go to bed stronger than you woke up that morning.
And because of this, sometimes the best thing you will get out of your hard work is the troubles you experienced, the lessons that came along with them, and the person it made you into.
4. Practice What You Can Control
When you actively practice the things that are in your control to the point of mastering them, you will be able to confront the things that are out of your control with a stronger mindset that will help you tolerate them with more stamina and endurance.
Spend some times working on the following things that are in your control:
Your Breathing
Practicing deep breathing can help you learn how to calm your nerves and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This is a practice that allows more air to flow throughout your body, which promotes a sense of relaxation. Here are four exercises to try to practice deep breathing.
Your Attitude
If you can’t change something that is causing you stress, change your attitude about it. Whatever challenge you’re facing, reframe how you’re thinking and start to consider it as a starting point for achieving something new.
Owning the opportunity to change your attitude and your reaction to things you cannot control is a shortcut to growth, happiness, and a sense of freedom.
Gratitude
Research has found that practicing gratitude is directly related to greater levels of happiness.
Giving thanks for the things you’re grateful for in life helps you feel positive emotions more frequently, enjoy the good experiences that you have, improve your physical health, handle conflict, and build strong social bonds.
Visualizing yourself achieving positive outcomes will help you cultivate a motivated and powerful state of mind. Visualizing happy things, such as plans for your future or a favorite memory helps you focus on good things, which combats worry.
Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally paying attention to the present moment without passing any judgement.
When you take the time to visualize the good things in life, you’ll have less time and energy to worry about factors beyond your control.
The more you engage in visualization, the better you will become at doing it. The results of this practice can have a big impact on your life. Start by creating a vision board.
5. Let Go
You will notice life is a lot easier when you release control, and once you do, you will realize you never really had control in the first place. Start allowing things to happen instead of making them happen.
Like most people, you probably spend a lot of time focusing on business that’s not your own–whether that’s your friends’ business, your boss’s business, or the universe’s business. But the reason you’re trying to be a part of everything is because you’re scared of what might happen if you’re not.
This need for control stems from an attachment to one outcome, which you’re sure is the best outcome.
But the truth is, you don’t always know what’s best. So when you can step back and trust that you will be alright whether you try to micromanage everything or not, you can let go. This will open you up to all kinds of new possibilities that aren’t possible when you’re devoted to only one “correct” result.
When you choose to let go and surrender to reality, you will make a shift from being anxious, stressed, and hyper-focused on the past and the future, to being calm and present in the moment. You will start to actually feel like you’ve gained control.
Letting go is a combination of accepting what is and having faith that everything will be alright. So when you notice you’re starting to micromanage your surroundings, make a deliberate decision to just let go.
Final Thoughts on Controlling What You Can Control
While you may not have control over a lot of the big things in life, there are a ton of smaller things that you do have control over. And by learning to control what you can, it will become second nature to act in empowering, positive ways.
So let go, and start using your time in a more effective way that will help you live your best life. And remember, research shows that 85% of things that you worry about that are out of your control never come true.
And if you’re looking for more resources to help you control what you can control in your life, here are some articles that might help:
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
There are several steps in personal growth that go along with growing a successful business. From self-awareness to risk tolerance, many of the buzzwords in entrepreneurship actually come from popular psychology. Having a working knowledge of how an entrepreneurial mind processes information is a good start to figuring out whether — and how — starting a business is best for you. Perhaps the biggest step is going from being an employee at someone else’s business, to deciding that you truly want to lead your own.
Crossing the bridge to business ownership requires an entrepreneurial, adaptable mindset. First, understand that you’ll be going from a 9-5 mindset to one that is on 24/7, 365 days a year. It may feel overwhelming, but it’s something every successful business leader cultivates. Second, you’ll be going from following orders to leading other people, which requires another shift in perception. Third and most importantly: To grow a business, you need a growth mindset.
Self-awareness is the most basic and essential attribute for an entrepreneur, which is why it’s become a business buzzword. Surprisingly, a study reported in the Harvard Business Journal found that “even though most people believe they are self-aware, self-awareness is a truly rare quality,” and estimate that only 10% to 15% of the people surveyed actually have the self-awareness necessary for a managerial position.
To gain self-awareness and determine a path to successful entrepreneurship, take an honest look in the mirror. What are your strengths and weaknesses? What motivates you? Looking inward leads to decision-making about whether being an employee is the best fit or if you have the core mindset to be an entrepreneur — and, for an entrepreneur, self-awareness is also the power for cultivating a great team.
Leaving the comfort of an organization to start a new venture requires overcoming fear, building fortitude and taking a leap of faith. Going from an employee mindset to an entrepreneurial one may be the biggest emotional jump — but it will be the first of many.
Having an adaptable mindset is one of the key elements of creating and growing a business. What is an adaptable mindset? It’s what the brain does behind the scenes to help us learn from mistakes and overcome setbacks to find solutions and move ahead, instead of accepting failure.
This resilience can’t be underestimated in entrepreneurship. Not only does business survival depend on the ability to learn and overcome difficulties, but it allows a business owner to seek and leverage new opportunities.
There was a groundbreaking book on this very subject published in 2006 by psychologist Carol Dweck titled Mindset: The New Psychology of Success that explores the concept of growth and fixed mindsets, terms that the author coined. Examining brain processing activity, her team measured brain activity as students reviewed their mistakes on a test. They found some students had more brain activity, demonstrating a growth mindset, and others had none — a fixed mindset. She postulated that a fixed mindset prevents you from learning from mistakes, while a growth mindset can empower you to perceive mistakes as learning opportunities.
Is it possible to train oneself to create a growth mindset? Absolutely. It’s a matter of transforming thinking from a one-size-fits-all to an adaptable mindset. Here are a few tips:
Be human: Humans are flawed by nature. Accept imperfection in yourself and those around you and embrace the uniqueness that makes you, you.
Be brave: Overcome fear by seeing new challenges as opportunities. Fear is a natural emotion, and having the ability to forge ahead with a can-do attitude will take you through many crises and allow you to operate in a high-pressure environment. Think of business as an adventure and achieving success as a climb along a rocky, winding trail to the mountain top.
Be mindful: Give consideration to what you’re thinking and saying. There’s an old song recorded by crooner Johnny Mercer in 1944 titled Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive that allows us to, as the lyrics go, “eliminate the negative,” which holds true. Self-censor the negative thoughts in your head, and don’t let them exit your mouth. The more you focus on the good, the less the bad will concern you and the results will be self-respect, ethical behavior and the ability to reach higher to achieve loftier goals.
Be creative: If you can dream it, you can do it. Your brainstorm needs a clear vision about what it is, and the need it fills. Envision what success will look like and create a detailed business plan to achieve it. When we started our food truck business our goal was to offer amazing fresh Mexican food in a casual atmosphere. We knew that success for us would be an escalation to more trucks, then brick-and-mortar locations and finally a franchised business model.
Be real and realistic: Take a deep dive into what you want to achieve in business. Is it fame or fortune? Is it a dollar amount? A number of locations? Goals are essential, but just as important is a realistic plan to reach any objective. Time, funding and knowledge each contribute to the capability to reach any goal.
Establishing an adaptable, growth mindset is a core element of entrepreneurship. But what you fill that same mind with is just as essential. Being familiar with the ins and outs of business and acquiring top leadership skills are the basics. Business knowledge will help to create a better employee environment provide a better chance of success in business, greater personal development, more adaptability and enhances communication skills in the workplace
One of the best places to begin when seeking financial literacy for starting a business is the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This government organization is dedicated to bringing “financial literacy not only to America as a whole, but specifically to small businesses and future entrepreneurs.” They offer a Money Smart for Small Business toolkit that provides an introduction to small business management topics.
Transforming from an employee to an employer, overcoming fear and gaining knowledge all contribute to developing a growth mindset. With adaptability and a positive outlook, anything is possible, especially business growth and success.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
In entrepreneurship, success and wealth are often seen as the ultimate markers of achievement. However, it is essential to recognize that true success is not merely measured by monetary gains but by a profound sense of fulfillment and well-being.
Positive psychology, a transformative approach to personal and professional growth, holds the key to unlocking your full potential and creating a life of abundance. In this article, we will explore how positive psychology can guide you on your journey to wealth and success, empowering you to build a prosperous business and a life of happiness and meaning.
Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive mindset as the foundation for success. Your thoughts shape your reality, and by embracing a positive outlook, you can overcome challenges, maintain resilience and attract abundance into your life. Research has shown that individuals with a positive mindset are more likely to take risks, persevere in adversity and ultimately achieve their goals.
Cultivate optimism by focusing on positive affirmations, practicing mindfulness and reframing negative thoughts into opportunities for growth. Practice gratitude daily, as it enhances your well-being and helps you recognize the abundance that already exists in your life. Remember, wealth and success begin in the mind.
Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs. To thrive in this ever-changing landscape, embracing growth and cultivating resilience is crucial. Successful entrepreneurs understand that setbacks and failures are not permanent roadblocks but valuable stepping stones on the path to success.
Embrace a growth mindset, which is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. See setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth, and approach them with curiosity and a willingness to adapt. Foster a resilient spirit by building a support network, seeking mentorship and practicing self-care. Resilience is the key to navigating challenges, bouncing back stronger and ultimately achieving lasting success.
3. Harnessing the power of emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence is a critical factor in building successful businesses and meaningful relationships. It involves understanding and managing your own emotions effectively, as well as empathizing with others. By cultivating emotional intelligence, you can foster strong connections, inspire trust and lead with compassion.
Successful entrepreneurs recognize the importance of self-awareness, which involves understanding your strengths, weaknesses and triggers. By understanding yourself better, you can make more informed decisions, handle stress effectively and build authentic relationships with employees, customers and partners.
Additionally, empathy allows you to understand the needs and perspectives of others, fostering better communication, collaboration and teamwork. Emotional intelligence not only enhances your personal well-being but also contributes to building a positive and supportive work environment.
4. Building a purpose-driven business
Aligning your entrepreneurial journey with a larger purpose catalyzes extraordinary success. When you are driven by a mission that goes beyond mere profit, you tap into a wellspring of motivation and fulfillment. Start by defining your values and understanding the impact you want to make in the world. What problem are you passionate about solving? How can your skills and expertise contribute to positive change?
You can create a business that serves the greater good and provides a sense of purpose by answering these questions. When your work is aligned with your values and drive, you are more likely to stay committed, persevere through challenges and attract like-minded individuals who share your vision. Your purpose-driven business becomes a vehicle for making a positive impact on society, and as a result, financial success becomes a natural byproduct.
Building a successful business requires collaboration and networking. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers and industry experts who can guide and inspire you on your path. Collaborating with others not only expands your knowledge and resources but also opens doors to new opportunities.
Actively seek out networking events, conferences and communities where you can connect with like-minded individuals and potential business partners. Be open to sharing your knowledge and experiences and learning from others. Collaboration breeds innovation and accelerates your path to success. Remember that true success is not achieved alone but through the collective efforts of a supportive network.
Gratitude is the ultimate magnet for abundance. In the pursuit of wealth and success, it is easy to get caught up in the cycle of always striving for more. However, practicing gratitude allows you to recognize and appreciate the progress you have made, the lessons learned and the people who have supported you along the way. By focusing on gratitude, you shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance, opening yourself up to limitless possibilities. Gratitude helps you maintain a positive outlook, enhances your overall well-being and attracts more positive experiences into your life. Embrace an abundance mentality, recognizing that there is enough success and wealth for everyone. When you cultivate gratitude and abundance, you attract wealth and success effortlessly.
Positive psychology is a transformative approach that empowers entrepreneurs to create extraordinary lives of wealth, success and fulfillment. With the power of positive psychology, you can unleash your entrepreneurial potential and build a life of abundance and success.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Bold, assertive self-confidence can be conceptualized as an unshakable faith in one’s abilities, skills and competence. It’s a firm conviction in one’s potential to navigate obstacles, achieve set objectives and make informed decisions. More than simple self-assurance, bold, assertive self-confidence involves proactive action based on your deeply held beliefs, instilling a sense of agency and control over your life’s trajectory.
This dynamic construct plays a pivotal role in pursuing personal and professional success. Bold, assertive self-confidence shapes how we perceive and react to challenges, transforming potential roadblocks into opportunities for growth and learning. It enables us to take calculated risks, fosters resilience and promotes a growth mindset. When cultivated and harnessed, assertive self-confidence acts as an internal compass, guiding us toward our goals and visions, even amidst uncertainty and change. It’s the fuel that powers our journey, empowering us to envision success and actualize it. Hence, assertive self-confidence is not merely an attribute; it’s a catalyst that propels us toward our desired future.
The power and impact of bold, assertive self-confidence
There are substantial positive outcomes to be gained when the belief in yourself is aligned with the effort required to achieve your goals. You must be willing to do the work. Below are five key measures of the power of bold, assertive self-confidence:
Drives action and motivation: An integral aspect of bold assertive self-confidence is its role in motivating individuals towards goal-directed behavior. It is a propellant that spurs entrepreneurs and leaders to formulate ambitious goals and take strategic, decisive actions, enabling them to transform passive aspirations into tangible achievements that are supported by meaningful measures.
Cultivates resilience: The entrepreneurial landscape can be full of obstacles and setbacks. However — bold, assertive self-confidence allows individuals to perceive these adversities as opportunities for learning and growth. This perspective fortifies resilience, equipping entrepreneurs to endure and adapt, even in the face of the most daunting challenges.
Ignites leadership potential: Leaders emanating bold, assertive self-confidence inspire a similar sense of assurance within their team members. This reciprocal dynamic fosters a culture of shared confidence, leading to enhanced team performance, improved problem-solving abilities, and, ultimately, collective success.
Promotes calculated risk-taking: Bold, assertive self-confidence enables you to navigate uncertain business terrains and new situations confidently. This mindset encourages informed, calculated risk-taking — a necessary ingredient for significant business breakthroughs and innovation.
Fosters a growth mindset: Bold, assertive self-confidence nurtures a growth mindset, a belief in the potential for personal and professional evolution. Individuals who hold this belief perceive intelligence and talents as traits that can be honed and augmented, encouraging continuous learning, improvement and innovation.
Cultivating bold, assertive self-confidence: Practical strategies for implementation
Set and achieve small goals: Boost your assertive self-confidence by setting achievable goals. These milestones reinforce your belief in your abilities and incrementally build your self-confidence. Establishing and accomplishing manageable goals creates complete trust in your abilities, paving the way for more significant successes.
Embrace continuous learning: Make learning a lifelong pursuit. Expanding your knowledge base and developing new skills will equip you to handle business challenges and solidify your belief in your ability to grow and adapt. Adopting a lifelong learning mindset enhances your adaptability, reinforcing your confidence in your growth potential and leading to success in ever-changing business landscapes.
Cultivate self-compassion: Practice kindness towards yourself, especially when you encounter setbacks or failures. Recognize these experiences as stepping stones to success, not as insurmountable roadblocks. Practicing self-compassion in the face of setbacks fosters a resilient belief in your journey, viewing each obstacle as a step to success rather than a deterrent.
Engage in positive self-talk: Reinforce assertive self-confidence through affirmations and positive self-talk. Regularly acknowledging your abilities and successes can replace self-doubt with a more resilient self-belief. Positive self-talk fortifies bold, assertive self-confidence, replacing self-doubt with resilient self-belief, thus catalyzing personal and professional achievements.
Visualize success: Picturing your goals and visualizing your path to achieving them can strengthen your self-confidence. This mental exercise helps make your ambitions more attainable and motivates you to strive. Visualization practices solidify your self-confidence and belief in achieving your goals.
In essence, assertive self-confidence is the key to unlocking our potential and achieving lasting success in our lives and businesses. Only by believing in ourselves can we develop the courage and resilience to face any challenge with assurance and grace. As entrepreneurs, we must take the initiative to foster a culture of trust and optimism in our organizations.
When we all work together to create and sustain healthy, positive beliefs — through self-compassion, positive self-talk, goal setting, learning and visualizing success — our collective journey will be filled with meaning and accomplishments. With unshakable trust in ourselves comes an abundance of strength that drives us forward while keeping us grounded. So, let’s dare to dream big; it’s time to let bold, assertive self-confidence lead the way!
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
As parents and educators, we all want our adolescents to succeed. We want them to grow into confident, capable and resilient adults who can overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset and skill set in adolescents is highly important, even if they don’t have aspirations to become business owners or entrepreneurs. Here are some ways you can encourage adolescent growth:
1. Develop a growth mindset
Developing a growth mindset is critical to adolescent growth and success. Adolescents who believe their abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication tend to perform better than those who believe their abilities are fixed. Encouraging a growth mindset requires a shift from focusing on innate abilities to valuing effort and resilience. Praising effort over innate ability can help reinforce this shift in mindset.
For example, when a teenager tries to learn a new skill or complete a challenging task, it’s essential to acknowledge and praise their hard work. When faced with setbacks or failure, it’s important to teach adolescents that these experiences are opportunities to learn and grow. Emphasizing the importance of persistence and resilience can help adolescents develop the skills and mindset needed to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Encouraging a growth mindset in adolescents can help them develop confidence in their ability to learn and grow, setting them on a path to long-term success.
Adolescents need opportunities to make decisions and take responsibility for their actions, which helps them build confidence and decision-making skills. As a parent or guardian, it’s essential to encourage your teenager to take on tasks and projects that challenge them and allow them to make decisions on their own. Providing them with age-appropriate responsibilities, such as managing their schedule, completing household chores or organizing a community service project, can help them develop the skills needed to be self-sufficient and independent.
While it may be tempting to micromanage or take over tasks to ensure they are done correctly, resisting this urge and giving adolescents the space they need to learn and grow is essential. This will help them develop a sense of ownership and responsibility, which can lead to increased motivation and achievement. Encouraging independence in adolescents can be a delicate balance between offering guidance and support while also giving them the space to make their own decisions and learn from their mistakes.
3. Provide mentorship
Mentorship and guidance from adults/professionals with experience in areas your adolescent is interested in can be one of the fastest ways for them to learn. Encourage them to seek out mentors in their field of interest, and provide them with access to resources and opportunities that can help them grow and develop. Help them find local networking events, and attend with them. Take an interest in what they’re doing, and share their excitement for their passions.
Life is full of ups and downs, and adolescents need to learn how to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. Encourage them to focus on their strengths and accomplishments rather than dwelling on their mistakes or shortcomings. Help them develop a growth mindset, where they view challenges and failures as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as a reflection of their abilities. Praising their effort and hard work, rather than their innate abilities, can also help foster a growth mindset.
It’s important to note that building resilience is an ongoing process that takes time and effort. Adolescents may struggle with setbacks and challenges, but with your guidance and support, they can learn to cope and bounce back stronger than ever. Encourage them to be patient with themselves and to focus on their progress rather than perfection. If your teen is struggling with confidence, there is nothing wrong with enrolling them in an individual teen therapy program to gain expert help. By teaching coping strategies and promoting a positive mindset, you can help your teenager develop resilience and thrive in all areas of their life.
5. Encourage entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is an excellent way to foster adolescent growth and success. Encourage adolescents to explore their entrepreneurial interests by providing access to resources and opportunities such as business plan competitions, internships and mentorship programs. Instill creativity, and harness the four pillars for raising an entrepreneurial child.
Financial literacy is critical to life and personal success. Teach adolescents how to manage their finances, including budgeting, saving and investing. This can help them make informed financial decisions in the future.
Encouraging adolescent growth and success requires a multifaceted approach considering personal and professional development. By fostering a growth mindset, encouraging independence, promoting creativity, providing mentorship, promoting resilience, encouraging entrepreneurship and teaching financial literacy, we can help adolescents reach their full potential and achieve success in life.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Successful entrepreneurs are a special breed. They are maestros. They are innovators. And they are tenacious. The best of these business leaders understand how to drive sales, lead their teams and orchestrate growth. Perhaps not surprisingly, many entrepreneurs share common traits that position them well for both business and personal success. These qualities relate to having the right mindset, skillset and activity — topics often discussed in TAB board meetings. Out of the three, mindset is square one for business acceleration but ironically is also what usually keeps us from achieving our goals.
An entrepreneur’s strong and positive mindset really is one of the biggest drivers of business success. But what does a strong mindset really mean? The obvious answer includes drive, attitude and maybe even a good dose of stubbornness. But a truly winning mindset requires something more.
It demands self-reflection.
To assess your own mindset — both as a business owner and in your personal life — ask yourself these five key questions:
1. How committed am I?
Commitment is the act of binding yourself in mind and spirit to a goal or course of action. But let’s be clear, having a goal is not the same as being committed to accomplishing it. A goal is something that you want to achieve, while commitment is the inner drive that will get you there.
Commitment is also notoriously difficult to gauge. Setting goals and working toward them are standard visions for most entrepreneurs, but what is your threshold for overcoming hiccups, roadblocks and dealbreakers along the way?
A key component of commitment is smart planning. Don’t just envision success, strategize how you are going to overcome all those inevitable obstacles along the way.
Many entrepreneurs launch their businesses based on some combination of personal expertise and market viability. But more and more, business leaders are being driven by their passion. Perhaps that passion is related to adding important products or services to the marketplace. It might manifest itself as contributing to the public good. Or maybe a business owner is energized by innovation and futurism.
The specific catalyst for launching your business is far less relevant than your innate belief in the importance of what you are doing. By infusing meaning and purpose beyond financial objectives into your business and mission, you substantially enhance your entrepreneurial mindset.
Self-confidence is such a central part of the winning mindset of an entrepreneur. Believing in one’s own ability to create, run and grow a business takes a lot of chutzpah. But it is important not to confuse boldness with fearlessness – and a good dose of fear is actually good. An entrepreneur’s ability to transform personal fear into positive action empowers them to be better business leaders. Self-trust enables you to take calculated risks, allows you to learn from your failures, and allows you to leverage your talents to achieve your goals. If you struggle with self-doubt and have ambitions for entrepreneurship, now is probably a good time to work on improving your confidence. It starts with recognizing your strengths, valuing your talents and trusting your capabilities to make smart decisions.
4. Do I see setbacks as failures or opportunities to learn?
While never an easy pill to swallow, entrepreneurs do actually learn more from their failures than from their successes. Henry Ford’s first automobile manufacturing business went bankrupt prior to his launching of the Ford Motor Company. Walt Disney’s first cartoon was a flop. And perhaps most infamously, Steve Jobs was fired from Apple. Of course, he was subsequently rehired and went on to mastermind Apple’s meteoric rise to become the largest public company in the history of the world.
The point is that setbacks, even at the grandest scale, are often the sparks that set innovation and self-resolve into motion. Failure coupled with inquisitiveness can serve as a masterclass for entrepreneurs on what worked, what didn’t work and what is the best path forward.
Having the right mindset is essential to becoming the business leader you want to be. A fixed mindset is a limiting belief system that presumes talent, intelligence and the right path forward are rigid and unforgiving. This mentality can be debilitating for entrepreneurs and the success of their organizations. Think of all those times you have heard a business owner say, “It is just how we have always done it here.” Where are they now?
On the other hand, business owners with a growth mindset are open to innovation, change and overcoming challenges. They believe talent can be developed through experience and training. Entrepreneurs with a growth mindset tend to be lifelong learners. They are innovators in their own sectors and throughout their industry at large. A growth mindset is indeed almost a prerequisite for success.
Take some time to reflect on these important mindset-related questions and how they apply to you. By the very nature of delving into the topic and doing a little self-discovery, you almost certainly qualify as having a growth mindset and are that much closer to becoming the business owner you want to be.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
We all have experienced that inner critic holding us back. That voice telling us that we aren’t good enough, that we will fail and that we should give up.
This is a normal part of being human. But as you enter into a new year, you don’t need to let those fears stop you. You can become your own biggest advocate. You can reframe your internal voice to one that supports you and a bigger vision for your career and your life.
Here are four ways to begin to harness a growth mindset to support you in getting to where you really want to be while embracing the journey and the inevitable ups and downs along the way.
1. Get clear on what matters to you
Life can get busy, and at times you may find yourself just going through the motions, being disconnected from the bigger picture and your personal mission. When was the last time that you reflected on where you are at in your life and whether you are on a path that is fulfilling to you? Give yourself permission to check in with yourself and make it a priority to do this on a regular basis. Ask yourself: What are the most important things to you? Look at how you are spending your time. Are you making the moments in your life high-quality moments? Once you get clear on these things, you will know where to focus your time and energy for maximum happiness and fulfillment.
2. Create habits that fuel your happiness and success
Sometimes your everyday patterns and habits can be fueling a disempowering mindset and stress. Something as simple as grabbing your phone right after you wake up to check your messages and notifications can be setting you up for being in a reactive and stressed state throughout the day. Powering through your workday without taking breaks. Lack of exposure to sunlight and the outdoors. Poor eating habits and minimal movement. These are all things that can be setting your mind and body up for success. The good news is that once you have an awareness of your personal habits and patterns you can then choose to take a new approach. You aren’t stuck with behaviors that don’t serve you. By building awareness and then making small changes you can set yourself up for feeling your best at home and at work. What is a new healthy behavior that you are excited about that you can start today?
Your mind is a very powerful tool that can support or hinder your success and happiness. There are always multiple ways to perceive and interpret events and experiences in your life and multiple ways to respond to what life presents to you. When you embrace a growth mindset, you are choosing to view challenges as opportunities for growth. You are looking at things with a sense of curiosity and newness. I like to ask myself the question, how can I view this in a way that is empowering for me? So instead of fueling a limiting belief like, I’m not good enough, you could reframe this to I’m still learning and I am proud of the progress I have made so far. Embracing a growth mindset also takes self-compassion so remember to be kind to yourself along the way and show yourself the love and grace that you deserve and need.
4. Set approachable goals and celebrate the everyday wins
Setting large goals is great but they do require time, persistence and patience. Without daily motivation and encouragement, it can be challenging to stick with them for the long haul. This is one reason why setting smaller and more approachable goals on a daily basis can help set you up for success. With these bite-sized goals, you will move step by step closer to your bigger vision for your life. And, enjoying the journey and giving yourself the positive reinforcement you need to feel your best and stay motivated.
Imagine someone who never runs saying they want to run a marathon. If all they focused on was that marathon, they would probably feel overwhelmed and not actually take the necessary steps to get to that end goal. Instead, if they broke that bigger goal into smaller goals like, for week one I am going to run one mile on Monday and Friday. Then build from there. They would have more approachable steps giving them positive reinforcement that would move them in the right direction. What are some meaningful large goals that you have that can be broken down into bite-sized pieces that you can start today?
Embracing a growth mindset is not as easy as just flipping a switch. But with awareness, intention and action you can support your mind and your body in feeling your best while moving towards your version of success in 2023 and beyond.
Disclaimer: This content purely represents the opinion of the author and is not medical advice or treatment recommendations. Always talk to your healthcare provider about recommendations specific to you.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Do you ever think to yourself, “My situation has always been the same — I’m stuck, and I just need to play the cards I’m dealt with”? If you have done this, you are dragging yourself down with a fixed mindset. Alternatively, a growth mindset means that you prosper despite challenges and obstacles because you see them as catalysts for change and don’t see failure as a way to describe yourself.
Events or actions that don’t work out as intended or desired are learning experiences, ways to grow in every facet of your life and a way to further develop your abilities. Your intelligence, talents and, most importantly, wisdom require setbacks to stimulate fundamental transformation and growth.
We’re all familiar with the saying, “No pain, no gain.” However, Arnold Schwarzenegger took that comparison to a new level when he likened the pain of training with the feelings that arise from sex. What if we look at life’s pain and difficulties as training to help us improve, with all outcomes as positive? We’d embrace the pain as today’s challenge and remember the feeling we have when they are surmounted. We wouldn’t be discouraged or give up when faced with problems; we would expect obstacles and challenges as normal.
Why not give up? Because anything is possible with the right mindset, determination and action. Earlier in his career, Arnold struggled with getting work because of his thick accent. His voice was replaced with a voiceover in one of his first movies, “Hercules in New York“! He could have been discouraged and given up on his acting career. Instead, he took voice coaching lessons and got better, became famous and successful and extended that success to almost every aspect of his life.
Sometimes when people are unhappy with their situation in life, they believe changing their location will improve things. Perhaps they say, “If I lived here and not there, everything would be ok.” However, they often find that their original problems, difficulties and challenges have moved with them after relocating. If they have a fixed mindset before relocating and have one after, they may be happy for a short while, but soon the reality of the struggles in their mind will return. Regardless of circumstance, a growth mindset trumps all.
Have you ever been stuck alone in an isolated location for a long time? I know someone who grew significant skill sets, lost 70 pounds, reclaimed good health and built two startups while dealing with a location challenge; they were alone for almost a year during the Covid-19 pandemic. For them, the “pain” of solitude was ultimately a gift, and they used it wisely.
The key to real change is commonly elusive: changing your mindset, being happy with everything you already have and being grateful to wake up to another day. Sound simple? Often it is not. When several challenges arise, it is human nature to feel overwhelmed. After a while, we can feel like boxers in a boxing match, taking one blow after another, especially if we get caught up in the negativity and sensationalism that is often pervasive in the news. It can have us thinking the next blow is around the corner.
Instead, we need to fight these thoughts and emotions daily and assume and wish that the next thing that will happen to us will be positive. Being surprised and delighted when something nice happens, and treating it like something undeserved, will completely change our life. When internalized, chased daily and pursued during critical periods of meditation and reflection, such positive thinking will change outcomes for us. It is essential to make time for ourselves for this kind of reset.
For example, if we change our minds to be in a growth mindset before the day starts, as needed during the day, and at night before bed, we’ll live a far better life. This takes energy and focus but is more than worth it. Living, talking and breathing positivity “out” will draw positivity into your life, attracting beneficial opportunities and outcomes often dismissed as impossible. Our thoughts become actions, our actions become impacts, and others will notice and be positively impacted. A kind word or thought that is genuine and can naturally emerge from this energy will also open new doors for us. The constant process of fighting to be positive can make radical differences in “what happens” to us. Instead, we are driving change instead of it driving us, and for the better.
Very often, people think that money will solve all their problems. However, having a lot of money will only last so long if they have the wrong mindset. For example, many professional athletes — often highly paid — are bankrupt five years after retiring.
Without the right mindset — for example, to focus on being an investor and not a consumer — you will always have problems with money. A growth mindset will direct your thoughts and actions to “how can I grow my money, invest, learn from mistakes, and get better at it?” Conversely, a fixed mindset may lead to an unwillingness to exercise deferred gratification, that “while we have it, we’ll spend it.”
A growth mindset will allow the purchase of luxuries later, with profits from investment rather than salary. Given that a growth mindset and an investor mindset are tightly coupled, it further demonstrates Mark Cuban’s advice, “live like a college student.” Such an approach can lead to lasting success.
Great thoughts lead to real action, and positive action will eventually lead to positive results. Staying positive relentlessly and remaining in a growth mindset is the key to lasting success. Such a perspective will help us clear out thoughts of feeling like a victim, and instead, we will see all the obstacles we overcome as another chance at victory, and thus we will become the victor.
