Embracing a Growth Mindset

Building human connections is my favourite thing to do. To help us connect deeply and add value to our collective journeys, I have decided to share my thoughts with you through my fortnightly newsletter. I hope you find value.

A short introduction - I am Utkarsh Narang, Founder, IgnitedNeurons, a learning facilitator, executive coach, and a Courage catalyst. I find joy in creating experiences for managers to help them become leaders for the world. I live in Melbourne, Australia, and serve clients globally.

The newsletter has 4 parts - A Big Idea, A Question for You, a BrainWave for the Fortnight, and a Lesson from a Book I finished.

Big Idea - Embracing a Growth Mindset

Have you ever noticed how some people seem to thrive on challenges, while others shy away from them? The difference often lies in something called a Growth Mindset—a concept that has profoundly impacted how I approach my work and life.

A Growth Mindset, as described by Carol Dweck, is the belief that our abilities can be developed through dedication, effort, and learning. It's about embracing the process rather than just focusing on the outcome.

I’ve seen firsthand how adopting this mindset can transform a team. When we stop fearing failure and start seeing it as a learning opportunity, the possibilities for growth are endless. I try to practice this daily—reminding myself and my clients that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Here are a few things I’m working on to cultivate a Growth Mindset in my own life:

1. Being Curious: I'm making a conscious effort to ask more questions—whether it's with my clients, my kids, or myself.
2. Celebrating Small Wins: I’ve started keeping a journal where I note down even the tiniest of successes, not just the big ones.
3. Facing Challenges Head-On: Instead of avoiding difficult conversations or tasks, I’m learning to lean into them, knowing they are opportunities in disguise.
4. Giving Better Feedback: I’m working on offering feedback that is specific, constructive, and focused on growth—both to others and to myself.

I’d love to hear how you’re incorporating a Growth Mindset in your life and work.?

“Becoming is better than being.” – Carol Dweck

A Question for You

What steps will you take to cultivate a Growth Mindset in your organization?

BrainWave

Growth often comes from discomfort. If you're too comfortable, you're likely not growing.

Lesson from a Book

I recently revisited Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. One insight that stood out to me was the power of the word “yet.” It’s a small word, but it shifts our thinking in a big way. When we say, “I can’t do this… yet,” we open ourselves up to the possibility of growth. It’s a reminder that learning is a journey, not a destination.

I’m trying to apply this in my life—whether it’s learning a new skill, tackling a tough project, or even in my role as a parent. The mindset of “yet” reminds me that growth is always possible, and that keeps me motivated to keep pushing forward.