Growth vs Fixed mindset

People can have one of two mindsets: a growth mindset or a fixed mindset (fucked mindset or fucked up mindset). These mindsets have a significant impact on how people approach challenges and view their abilities. So in this article, I will compare growth vs fixed mindset.

Let’s start with an overview of what the mindset is.

What is a mindset?

A mindset refers to a set of beliefs, attitudes, and assumptions that shape an individual’s perception of the world around them. 

Mindsets can be understood as:

– A mental framework, a habitual way of thinking and feeling about something that informs how someone perceives, interprets, researches, develops, and tests information and knowledge claims.
– The study of habits of mind (e.g., curiosity, openness, engagement, creativity, persistence, responsibility, flexibility and Self-Regulation & Metacognition).

Mindsets can be conscious or unconscious and are often shaped by past experiences, cultural background, and societal norms. A mindset can either be positive or negative, and it can impact an individual’s behavior, decision-making, and overall well-being. The mindsets we hold, consciously or subconsciously, shape:

– How we feel, think, and act
– Our sense of identity and belonging
– What we believe is possible

Mindsets can influence how people behave in a wide range of situations in life. For example, as people encounter different situations, their mind triggers a specific mindset that then directly impacts their behavior in that situation.

What is a fixed mindset?

A fixed mindset refers to the belief that abilities, talents, and intelligence are predetermined and cannot be changed. 

Here are some synonyms of a fixed mindset: fucked mindset, screwed mindset, static mindset, inflexible mindset, limited mindset, closed mindset, pessimistic mindset, etc.

There are many movies where personages never change.

You can see an example of it in the movie “The Big Lebowski.”

Its main character is a strange, hateful guy who doesn’t change at all.

But a fixed mindset is not always a bad thing. We can find many characters which are inspiring but always remain the same.

As an example, we can speak about “Forrest Gump.” Despite the main character being funny, he is still inspiring. 

Anyway, individuals with a fixed mindset tend to believe that their success or failure is based on their innate abilities rather than their effort or hard work. They may believe that their abilities are fixed with limitations, and that they cannot learn or improve beyond what they are at this moment. Individuals with a fixed mindset often avoid challenges that may reveal their weaknesses, as they fear looking incompetent. They may also be more likely to give up easily when faced with obstacles or setbacks, as they believe that their abilities are fixed and cannot be improved through effort or perseverance. 

I will give you a few examples of a fixed mindset:

– “I’m not creative.”
– “Public speaking isn’t something I can do because I’m not good at it.”
– “My athletic abilities are nonexistent, so I don’t even bother trying”
– “It’s impossible for me to be successful in a management position since I’m not a natural leader.”

These statements reflect a fixed mindset because they suggest that the individual’s abilities are predetermined and cannot be changed. The individuals believe that they are inherently deficient in certain areas and cannot improve through effort or hard work. Consequently, they may avoid challenges or opportunities that require them to learn something new or step outside their comfort zone. Individuals with a fixed mindset often view failure as a reflection of their abilities rather than an opportunity for growth, and they may be more likely to give up easily when faced with obstacles or setbacks.

What is a growth mindset?

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities, talents, and intelligence can be developed and improved through dedication and hard work. Individuals with a growth mindset tend to embrace challenges as an opportunity for growth and view failure as a stepping stone to success. 

Synonyms of a growth mindset: transformative mindset, open mindset, positive mindset, resilient mindset, flexible mindset, evolutionary mindset, learning mindset, dynamic mindset, growth-oriented mindset, progressive mindset, change-oriented mindset, expanding mindset, tenacious mindset, improvement mindset, developmental mindset, adaptable mindset, resolute mindset, possibility mindset, malleable mindset, optimistic mindset, etc.

Growth mindset examples:

1. Rocky Balboa 

Everyone knows that Rocky Balboa is a fictional character created by Sylvester Stallone. He is known for his never-give-up attitude and perseverance. Rocky is also willing to learn from his own failures and mistakes, using them as opportunities to improve and become the best version of himself. 

So if you embody the Rocky Balboa mindset, it means that you are willing to put in the effort and hard work required to achieve your goals. Overall, the Rocky Balboa mindset is one of resilience, determination, and a belief in the power of hard work and perseverance.

2. Neo

In the beginning Neo was just an ordinary guy, but after some kicks in the ass he changed. Completely. You can do the same.

Differences: growth vs fixed mindset?

Let’s compare growth vs fixed mindset:

In contrast to a fixed mindset, a growth mindset involves the belief that abilities can be developed and improved through dedication and hard work. Individuals with a growth mindset tend to embrace challenges as an opportunity for growth and view failure as a stepping stone to success. They are more likely to persist in the face of adversity and have a willingness to learn from their mistakes.

How to change a mindset

Changing your mindset might be a challenging task but the good thing is that you can change it. To make it easier for you I will give you some general tips and strategies for changing your mindset:

1. Recognize your current mindset

The first step in changing your mindset is to become aware of your current beliefs and assumptions. Take time to reflect on your thoughts and attitudes, and consider how they may be limiting you or preventing you from achieving your goals.

2. Challenge your beliefs

You should challenge any beliefs or assumptions that may hinder you as soon as you identify your current mindset. Ask yourself questions like, “Are there other ways of looking at this situation?” and “Is this belief true?”

3. Replace negative self-talk

If you speak negatively to yourself, all you will do is reinforce negative beliefs and limit your potential as a result. Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and focus on your strengths and abilities.

4. Surround yourself with positive influences 

Surrounding yourself with positive influences, such as supportive friends and family, can help you adopt a more positive mindset.

5. Take action

Changing your mindset requires action. Take steps towards your goals and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may be.

Don’t forget that changing your mindset takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually see results.

Other types of mindsets

Abundance mindset

An abundance mindset is a belief system that there are always enough resources and opportunities available to achieve one’s goals. Those with an abundance mindset focus on what they have and what they can do with it, rather than on what they lack. In their view, the world is full of limitless possibilities. When one has this mindset, they feel optimistic, creative, and willing to take risks in order to accomplish their goals.

Self-defeating mindset

A self-defeating mindset is a belief system that one is destined to fail and that success is not possible. These people often engage in self-sabotage and a lack of effort since they believe their actions will not produce success. People with this mindset can feel helpless and lack confidence, which can stifle their career development and personal growth.

Loser mindset

This type of mindset is closely related to self-defeating mindset. Basically it’s a negative belief system in which an individual perceives themselves as being destined to fail or to never succeed. They have an inner critic which leads them to nowhere.

This mindset is characterized by a lack of self-confidence, a fear of taking risks, and a tendency to focus on past failures and missed opportunities.

Individuals with a loser mindset often give up easily and may not put in the effort required to achieve their goals. This mindset can lead to very bad circumstances, so I suggest an opportunity for you to defeat your inner critic. How? All you have to do is to download my free ebook “How to Kill the Inner Critic,” you can do it here. Read it and implement the methods I mention there in your daily life.

Knowledge-centric mindset

Those who adopt a knowledge-centric mindset understand that knowledge is a dynamic resource that can be continuously refined and expanded through ongoing learning and exploration. 

A knowledge-centric mindset is a way of thinking that prioritizes the creation, acquisition, sharing, and using of knowledge as a means of achieving goals. It involves a deep appreciation for the value of knowledge and a belief that knowledge is the foundation for growth and success.

The last thought about growth vs fixed mindset

If you want to learn more about changing your mindset, here are some of my other articles that can help you in the process:

Why do I feel like a failure
Why is it difficult to change your mindset and how to do it!
What happens when you change your mindset? Prediction
How to reinvent yourself
Best ways to learn to like yourself better
Proven ways to silence your inner critic and find happiness