Maybe they’re born with it

Enter the growth mindset approach. Simply, it’s the idea that intelligence and skill—in any field or subject—can be developed through effort. Anyone can nurture their abilities in anything. It’s a concept endorsed by many top thinkers and is even part of NASA’s criteria in their hiring process.

In direct contrast is the fixed mindset, which is based on the belief that individuals are born with an innate level of intelligence and skill, that it’s fixed from birth, and therefore no amount of effort can increase it.

Your mindset shapes how you react and respond to life, how you feel about yourself, and what you believe you are capable of. Having a growth mindset when encountering situations that feel challenging or outside of your comfort zone can shift your perspective from “I can’t do this” to “I can’t do this… yet.” 

Mindsets: a POV

Studies show that students who held a growth mindset were 3x more likely to score in the top 20% on a test, while students with a mostly fixed mindset were 4x more likely to score in the bottom 20%. When having a growth mindset, people are more resilient and are better at overcoming challenges because they believe it’s essential for growth. 

Those with a fixed mindset avoid challenging themselves because they believe talent and intelligence are fixed, so they view failure almost as an insult to their character—failure once means failure always. It doesn’t have to be that way!

How can a growth mindset help in school?

A growth mindset represents the cornerstone qualities of a successful student. You believe your talent and achievements are achieved through challenging work, refined strategies, and help from others. Your mindset and behavior work in tandem. Success will be easier to find when you leave room for growth in both.

As an adult learner, you’ve had to overcome obstacles to return to your studies. While you balance all aspects of life with your studies, you have to figure out strategies to do well in school. Until you achieve your desired level of success, you can refine your studying strategies with input from a ReUp Success Coach, tutor, or peers.

Tips for cultivating growth

There are many mindset adjustments you can make to build upon a growth mindset foundation.

• Treat yourself with kindness and compassion when you notice your human imperfections.
• Reframe things you consider “failures” as moments of learning that are part of a continuous, lifelong growth process.  
• Take time to regularly acknowledge and celebrate your efforts, focus, improvement, courage, and persistence—it’s a way to keep your motivation and spirits high through the ebbs and flows.
• Whenever you fail to reach a goal you were aiming for, try using these magic words: “Not yet.” Remind yourself that you are learning and you can always try a new approach and strategy.

Growth vs. fixed

Now that we have a better idea about the growth mindset, how you can cultivate it, and how it differs from a fixed mindset, let’s take a look at some scenarios.

Going back to school

Fixed Mindset – Finishing my degree will be too difficult to fit into my life.
Growth Mindset – Understanding what my degree path will look like will give me insight into how it can actually work with my schedule. 

Doing well in school

Fixed Mindset – I’m just not good at school.
Growth Mindset – My previous academic experience doesn't indicate my current ability to learn.

Studying

Fixed Mindset – No matter how hard I study, I don’t test well. I will fail.
Growth Mindset – I just haven’t found the right studying strategy to be successful. There’s always room for improvement.

Whenever you’re faced with a challenge, think about your mindset while you’re tackling the obstacle. Are you ready to achieve academic success?

In summary

Your brain can change as you learn. Here are a few  things to keep in mind to maximize that potential:

• Focus on the process and refine it.
• Seek other viewpoints. Read books. Talk to other people and learn from their processes.
• Don’t shy away from adversity—step outside your comfort zone. Growth requires effort.

Practice is progress. Practice a growth mindset approach as you continue to take steps towards reaching your goals.