Lesson 29
Growth Mindset
Based on Carol Dweck's research, participants learn about growth versus fixed mindsets. A growth mindset believes that abilities can be developed through effort, learning, and persistence. This lesson shows how mindset shapes outcomes.
Module Resources
In This Module
Two Mindsets
Understand the difference between fixed and growth mindsets
Embracing Challenges
Learn to see obstacles as opportunities for growth
Developing Potential
Believe in your ability to change and improve
Fixed vs. Growth Mindset
Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck's research identified two fundamental mindsets that shape how we approach life:
Fixed Mindset: Believes that abilities are static—you're either smart or not, talented or not. People with fixed mindsets avoid challenges, give up easily, ignore useful feedback, and feel threatened by others' success.
Growth Mindset: Believes that abilities can be developed through effort, learning, and persistence. People with growth mindsets embrace challenges, persist despite setbacks, learn from criticism, and find inspiration in others' success.
How Mindset Affects Outcomes
Your mindset determines how you respond to life's challenges:
- Challenges: Fixed mindset avoids them; growth mindset embraces them
- Obstacles: Fixed mindset gives up; growth mindset persists
- Effort: Fixed mindset sees it as pointless; growth mindset sees it as the path to mastery
- Criticism: Fixed mindset ignores it; growth mindset learns from it
- Others' success: Fixed mindset feels threatened; growth mindset finds lessons and inspiration
Developing a Growth Mindset
The good news: mindsets can change. You can develop a growth mindset by:
- Viewing challenges as opportunities to learn
- Replacing "I can't" with "I can't yet"
- Focusing on effort and learning rather than looking smart
- Seeking feedback and using it constructively
- Celebrating progress, not just outcomes
- Learning about brain plasticity—your brain can grow and change
Growth Mindset and Reentry
A growth mindset is essential for successful reentry. You will face challenges—setbacks, rejection, difficult learning curves. Your mindset determines whether you see these as proof you can't succeed or as part of the journey to success.
Reflection Exercises
Write responses to the following questions. Take time for thoughtful, detailed answers.
Your Current Mindset
In what areas do you have a fixed mindset? In what areas do you have a growth mindset? Be honest.
Challenges Avoided
What challenges have you avoided because of fixed mindset beliefs? What would you try if you knew you could improve through effort?
Reframing Setbacks
Think of a recent setback or failure. How could you view it through a growth mindset lens? What can you learn from it?
Developing Growth Mindset
What specific practices will you adopt to develop a stronger growth mindset?