What does mindset really mean? The definition is an established set of attitudes held by an individual, influencing how they perceive and respond to situations.
Two Types of Mindsets
Someone with a fixed mindset believes that they or others or situations cannot change. Have you ever heard someone say, “I do it this way because I’ve always done it this way” or “I have a disease and the doctor says there’s not much I can do.” I really hate to hear things like this and feel terrible for the person who actually believes it.
On the other hand, a person with a growth mindset believes that they and their circumstances CAN change through effort and development. They don’t stay stuck in a rut of “poor me” or limited opportunities. The growth mindset person knows they CAN rise above circumstances and they are willing to put forth great effort and learning to do so. It is an intentional process.
Is This Backed by Science?
There is scientific evidence readily available. Europe’s Journal of Psychology states that “mindset and goal achievement are intrinsically related concepts, which remain associated across different life stages and populations.”
What does this mean? No matter how old you are or where you live or what your living circumstances are, YOU have the power within to affect your destiny. This is a choice. Growth mindset is seen in people who willingly take on tough challenges.
Here’s an example. The athletic young man who was in a terrible car accident that resulted in severe injury and left him a paraplegic confined to a wheelchair. This is an extreme example of a life-changing event. The young man has the choice to focus on what he lost. He lost a lot! He lost his scholarship to play college ball. He is no longer mobile to do the things he’s always enjoyed. Will he ever be able to marry and have a family? On the other hand, he could be grateful that he survived the tragedy despite his deep loss – he did not lose his life. He could also choose to use his athletic talent to engage in athletic wheelchair events. The point is, each of us has the choice of how to respond.
Individuals with a growth mindset are more likely to embrace challenges, persist through obstacles, and view effort as a path to mastery.
Neuroplasticity
The brain has the ability to form new pathways. This is relevant when we talk about changing habits – removing ones that do not serve us or adding new habits. A growth mindset encourages the development of these pathways, facilitating the establishment of positive habits.
The Science of Habit: How to Rewire Your Brain
I found a really good article you may also enjoy and included a portion here. Here’s the link. I encourage you to go read the full article.
The Science of Habit: How to Rewire Your Brain
Use this five-part framework to set goals that you can actually stick to:
- Discover. Make sure you understand why your goal matters to you.
- Diagnose. Identifying friction points or roadblocks and removing them is important. Create boundaries that will help keep you on track.
- Prescribe. Figure out your ideal game plan and personalize it to your interests and skills. Want to move more but hate to run? Dance or swim instead.
- Practice. As they say, done is better than perfect. Don’t get stuck in an “all-or-nothing” mindset for creating new habits. You’re not a failure if you aren’t going to the gym for an hour each day. Instead, take baby steps. Be flexible and forgiving with yourself. “I love the word ‘practice, It’s a reminder that it’s not about being perfect — it’s about doing it.”
- Pause. Reflecting on your efforts and results builds new links in the brain.
The above from the article is exactly how I coach! Client-centered, driven by your life, needs and goals within this framework of guidance and encouragement.
Workshop: How to Create Your Wellness Vision and Thrive by Design!
This workshop is coming up Feb. 3, 2025 at 2pm PST and the recording will also be available. You will leave the workshop with YOUR personalized Wellness Vision first draft.
You will need to cultivate the right mindset to create your Wellness Vision. This includes:
Self-Awareness: Reflect on your current beliefs about your abilities and potential for change.
Embracing Growth: Adopt a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities for development.
Mindset plays a pivotal role in shaping your behaviors and achieving your wellness objectives. Join the workshop and I’ll also guide you in the next step following your Wellness Vision creation! Here’s the link to register.
https://inspiredwellness.thrivecart.com/how-to-create-your-wellness-vision
I’ll see you there!
In love and health,
Terri