Developing a Motivated Mindset

As I discussed in last month's newsletter, my focus this year is to help you increase the intrinsic (infinite, everlasting) value in and around your life. This month's newsletter is designed to help you do just that.

Our society worships talent - just look at how much we pay our athletes and star performers. Many people assume that  possessing superior skill or intelligence - along with confidence - is the recipe for success.

However, Carol Dweck, a Psychology professor at Stanford University, says that more than 30 years of scientific investigation suggests that an overemphasis on intellect or talent leaves people a) vulnerable to failure, b) fearful of challenges and c) unwilling to remedy their deficiencies.

Can you believe that? How can over-focus on brain power and talent prevent us from succeeding? That seems a bit counter-intuitive but let's look at this in more detail through the theory of "mindsets".

Theory of Mindsets

One theory says that there are 2 general classes of learners: fixed mind-set and growth mind-set.

People who have a fixed mindset believe that “they are the way they are”. They believe that intelligence, skills, leadership, etc. are fixed traits. That doesn’t mean that they have less of a desire for a positive self-image than anyone else. They do, of course, want to look good, smell good and perform well. Yet, there are some characteristics evident in those with a fixed mindset:

• They Avoid Challenges - Rather than risk failing and negatively impacting their self-image, they will often avoid challenges and stick to what they know they can do well.

• They Avoid Obstacles - They would rather give up easily than risk not overcoming.

• They Ignore Negative Feedback - Well, ignore is the best of cases; feedback is often taken as an insult. They believe that any criticism of their capabilities is criticism of them personally.

• They are Threatened by the Success of Others - They will try to convince themselves and the people around them that the success of others was due to either luck or unethical actions.

• They Believe Effort is Fruitless - Hard work doesn't pay because 'you are what you are', 'you can only do what you can do'.

Do you know of anyone like that? Do you, at times, feel like that?

Let's now look at a growth mindset. People who hold the growth mindset believe that intelligence is malleable and can be developed through education and hard work. Characteristics of those with a growth mind-set are:

• Motivated by Challenges - You embrace challenges because you know you'll come out stronger on the other side.

• Persist in the face of Setbacks - Obstacles or external setbacks do not discourage you. Your self-image is not tied to your success or how you will look to others. Failure is an opportunity to learn, so whatever happens you win.

• Effort is Necessary - Effort is needed for you to grow and learn and master your skills.

• Feedback is a Source of Information - That doesn’t mean that all criticism is worth integrating or that nothing is ever taken personally, but at least you know you can change and improve.

• Inspired by the Success of Others - Success is not a zero-sum game. Success is a source of inspiration and information.

The Conclusion

Which mindset to you typically identify with? Does it depend on your surrounding circumstances?

More importantly... can you change your mind-set?

If you are someone or know of someone who has a fixed mindset, what can you do about it?  If you have children, what can you do to ensure that they develop a healthy, growth mind-set?

How many times have you said, "You're so smart."  or "Wow. You're gifted."  Ok, maybe not recently to your peers and co-workers, but have you ever said it to children.  I know I have... but I won't be doing that any more.  Here's why...

According to the research, 85% of parents believe that praising children's ability or intelligence when they perform well is important for making them feel smart. Studies, however, showed that praising a child's intelligence make them feel fragile and defensive. Did you catch that? Praising intelligence or a 'gift' of talent can actually make the person feel fragile and defensive.

In my coaching practice, I am often telling my clients to focus on the process, not the outcome. (The outcome is important - don't get me wrong. But if you're not enjoying the journey, chances are the outcome will fall short of your expectations.) Likewise, to encourage those around you to have a growth mind-set, praise the process. Praise the effort involved in taking that steps toward progress and success. Praise hard work and dedication. That, dear friend, is what encourages a growth mindset in those around you.
 

The Application

It is vitally important that we correct our fixed mindset and help others to do the same. In the work environment, you can recognize those with a fixed mind-set because these folks are:

• Less willing to admit their errors

• Less willing to confront their deficiencies in their work or relationships

• More likely to ignore constructive criticism or advice from others

• Less likely to seek feedback or welcome input and ideas

• Less likely to mentor or coach their underlings

Individuals with a growth mindset are people who believe that people can change and grow. This is the type of person I strive to help you become. So, how can I do that?

Making up Your Mind-Set

What can you do TODAY to improve your mindset and the mindset of others. Try these steps:

1. Understand that your brain is like a muscle. Learning really does prompt neurons in the brain to grow and create new connections. This process is never-ending. It is a dangerous and hurtful myth that you are born with a set number of brain cells.

2. Focus on the process instead of the outcome. Our brain can get so set and focused on the outcome that the steps necessary to get there produce feelings of frustration and discouragement.

3. Praise the process. Use statements like: "That was difficult, but you stuck with it and got it done." "Mistakes are learning experiences. Let's see what we can learn from this one." "I'm impressed with how you worked through that difficult situation. You are going to learn a lot of great things." If these statements don't come naturally, practice them daily.

4. Realize that hard work and discipline contribute much more to achievement than IQ does. Even what we call genius or talent is typically the results of years of dedication and passion, not something that flows naturally from a gift.

If we foster a growth mindset in our businesses, careers, homes and schools, we will give those around us the tools necessary to succeed in their pursuits and become personally accountable for their own success.  That's a wonderful intrinsic gift to give to those around you this year!

Click here to view online.

March 5, 2008
PRSA - Houston
11:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Briar Club
2603 Timmons
Houston TX 77027
(713) 622-3667

April 8, 2008
PMI Houston - North
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Strack Farms Restaurant 5707 Louetta,
Spring, Texas 77379
(281) 376-0901

April 9, 2008
PMI Houston - Galleria
6:15 - 8:00 p.m.
HESS Club
5430 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77056
(713) 627-2283

May 21, 2008
PMI Houston - Southwest
5:15 - 6:15 p.m.
Schlumberger
Sugar Land Campus
Forum Cafe
210 Schlumberger Dr.
(713) 513-2457

Use the button below to start the process!

The 6 Advisors Assessment Report goes below the surface of behavior and personality and measures with great accuracy the thought processes that are driving your decisions and actions.

Your FREE Introductory Assessment Report will include the full measurements plus written narrative and helpful audio for two (2) of your 6 Advisors. We have selected the clearest and most balanced Advisor and your least clear Advisor.