A growth mindset vs a fixed mindset
Liberty University
AVIA 245. Aviation Leadership
Professor: Jim Molloy
2022
A growth mindset vs a fixed mindset
If everything has its opposite, a fixed mindset is the opposite of a growth mindset. A fixed mindset
is the basic belief that you can’t change your talents, traits, and basic abilities; in other words, you have
certain innate abilities that you’re born with, and that is that. A mindset that's fixed assumes that your
character, intelligence, and creativity are unchanging, and nothing you can do will impact them.
Achievement for a fixed mindset is the belief that it just confirms your inclination toward a trait or your
intelligence. No effort or hard work will impact your achievements if you have a fixed mindset. This
means every situation is a way to prove yourself, to prove that your given abilities are enough to bring
success.
This means that there's now reason to try new things, because you won't have any growth. New
skills that you don't believe will come easily to you are out of the question. Failing at them will mean
you're unintelligent, and a failure as a person. Dweck says that having a mindset that is fixed can be
unhealthy, and won’t benefit individuals. “I’ve seen so many people with this one consuming goal of
proving themselves in [a learning setting], in their careers, and in their relationships. Every situation calls
for a confirmation of their intelligence, personality, or character. Every situation is evaluated: Will I
succeed or fail? Will I look smart or dumb? Will I be accepted or rejected? Will I feel like a winner or a
loser?” New research indicates that our brains are malleable, and someone with a mindset that's fixed
can change to a different mindset. They found that those that do change to a growth mindset are more
motivated and successful.
How a growth mindset will help you succeed.
It’s true that most everyone has certain talents or areas where they really excel. Some
find that math comes easily for them, others are instinctively creative. Some can memorize
facts with ease, and others excel at writing. No matter what your natural talents are, your
strengths and weaknesses alike can be improved with a growth mindset.
Students or individuals that come into their life with the attitude of “I’m not good at this,”
rarely find success. The people who accomplish the most display determination and discipline,
not just natural talent. Individuals and companies that foster a growth mindset are able to
tackle complications, overcome obstacles, and work harder to find success. They don’t give up
easily, and understand that setbacks don’t indicate that they are not good enough. Here at
WGU, we work to help you develop a growth mindset as a leader. Inspiring others to develop a
growth mindset will bring everyone success. We work to help you develop your own growth
mindset, so you can then help cultivate that ability in others. A growth mindset is crucial for
your success here at WGU, and as you enter your career. Working to develop this mindset now
will ultimately help you succeed in any challenge that comes your way.
