Mind Your Mindset

How do you look at your ability to handle problems, challenges, plan changes, or the unexpected? Do you see it as insurmountable or a hurdle you will get over? Do you get stuck in your feelings or do you get fired up to find a solution?

These are indicators of your mindset towards problems. They show you if you are inclined towards a fixed or a growth mindset. With a fixed mindset the belief is that it is what it is, and it can’t improve or get better. This is particularly true for skills, knowledge and abilities. A growth mindset sees the possibilities to learn more, grow and overcome challenges. As complex creatures we always have some of both in us. We may have a fixed mindset towards some things, like my ability to be an athlete, while having a growth mindset in other areas, like my ability to create a website.

With all the challenges facing us right now how we approach them will have a huge impact on the outcome. When we think of it as a problem to solve, we open our minds up to new possibilities. A growth mindset will give us a sense of control over the outcomes and allows us to keep a positive view of the situation. Focusing on what is possible, what is working and the idea that you can surmount the issue creates a positive attitude which feeds into the ability to get stuff done.

Here are 4 strategies to help you foster a positive mindset:

1. Take the long view: Remember that the current moment is fleeting and will pass soon. Ask yourself if this issue will matter in 6 months, or a 1 year? If the answer is no, then is it worth struggling for the perfect solution? Find an action that allows you to move forward and leave it behind you.
2. Let go of perfection: We will not ever have all the answers or be able to craft the perfect response to a troubling situation. All we can do is the best we can with what we have at the time. As we move forward, we will have more options and more knowledge allowing us to do better as time progresses. Seeking perfection stops movement. Pick a path and go, adjust as needed.
3. Keep learning: As you look at the challenge, what do you know? What can you learn from it? What do you need to learn to get past it? Asking these questions will help you focus on how to overcome the challenge. You will be looking forward and growing as you learn and act.
4. Embrace action: Taking imperfect action is better than being stuck in a difficult or painful situation. If we stop making progress it leads to a sense of defeat which whispers to us to give up. When we move forward, we move away from the comfort of giving up and are contributing to our new tomorrow.

We don’t know what tomorrow or next year will bring for us. We have a choice to make. Do we actively embrace the opportunity to grow to meet the new challenges? Will we stay safe, avoid risks and failure, and hold onto the past? Adopting a mindset that values learning, seeks to overcome challenges, and embraces possibilities will set us up to succeed at whatever comes next.

Let’s connect on FaceBook to keep the conversation going. Delta Consulting Group

Reference: Carol Dweck’s book “Mindset: Changing The Way You think To Fulfil Your Potential.”