Fixed Mindset vs Growth Mindset

To approach life with a growth mindset is to understand that ability needs to be developed.

When it comes to learning, there are two main mindsets we can adopt:
Fixed Mindset and Growth Mindset.

A fixed mindset is based on limiting beliefs such as the belief that intelligence or talent are set or fixed traits and that these traits are solely responsible for a persons success.
A person with fixed beliefs are often quick to list past accomplishments and to shy away from trying new things.

With a growth mindset, people believe that intelligence and skills are developed and see learning as an exciting opportunity for advancement.
They tend to shift their focus away from limiting beliefs — “I can’t do that”, “I’m not good at that”, to affirmations such as “I know I am not good at that yet, but with some effort I know I can improve”.

A person with a fixed mindset will often have a fear of failure (this is something I have battled most of my life to this day). This fear of failure can be quite insidious as it can stop a person from attempting new things, and in turn, advancing in life. Overcoming this is not easy but it is indeed possible.
It just takes practice.

Practicing positive self talk is a good place to start.


We need to change the language we are using when we talk to ourselves — you know, that little voice that tells us we can’t.
Be kind to yourself as you would to a child who is just learning. If you drop a glass for instance, it smashes and makes a mess, instead of saying to yourself “I’m so clumsy…” or “I’m so stupid…” give yourself a break and and remember that small child. The reality is, none of us are perfect!
Try saying something like “That’s okay, it’s just an accident…” or “Everyone makes mistakes…”
Re-affirm to yourself that it’s okay to be human. Perhaps treat yourself to some new glasses.
Replace words like “should” with “could” or “I’m stupid” with “I’m learning”.
In time, this will shift your perception of yourself from a definite negative to one of possibility and hope. This small change can help you to drag yourself out of your comfort zone and into the exciting world of possibilities.

It is at this point we can then begin to look at obstacles as an opportunity to learn and quite possibly have some fun doing it.

Learn the skill of learning…

It is widely recognised now that the brain is like a muscle and therefore can be developed and grown. So there is always a chance to go from “I can’t” to “I can” through effort and perseverance…

Those who think they can and those who think they can’t, are both usually right.

and if you fail, get up, try again and fail better!

“The only real failure, is the failure to try, and the measure of success is how we cope with disappointment”.
Deborah Moggach.