From ‘Have To’ to ‘Get To’: The Power of Mindset Shifts

Today, two thoughts resonated with me. First, a quote Sujit Singh posted: “Change your thoughts and you change your life.” Second, an article by Scott Eblin titled “Do You ‘Have To’ or Do You ‘Get To’?” These ideas reminded me of the power of mindset.

These two things got me thinking, or rethinking, about mindsets. Shifting your mindset means changing how you view life's challenges and opportunities. Like many, I've faced my share of both, and different perspectives have been crucial in navigating them. Support from family, friends, mentors, coaches, and sometimes even a good cry have also helped.

Research highlights the benefits of adopting a growth mindset, a concept popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck. This mindset, believing that abilities can develop through effort and learning, fosters resilience, creativity, and success.

Scott Eblin’s article introduces another shift: from “I have to” to “I get to.” This simple change can transform how we approach challenges, energizing us and renewing our engagement. He writes about how the shift from “have to” to “get to” helped amp up his energy and dial down his nerves when giving speeches to 1,000+ audience members.

I've experienced significant perspective shifts with the help of great coaches. One encouraged me to draw on my own experiences, while another helped me focus on future opportunities rather than losses.

Mindset shifts are powerful but require time, practice, and motivation. Here are some strategies:

1. Affirmations and Positive Self-talk: Use positive affirmations to boost confidence and overcome self-doubt. Consider how you'd speak to a loved one, friend, or colleague—then offer yourself the same kindness.
2. Mindfulness and Gratitude: Practices like meditation and gratitude journaling enhance self-awareness and focus on the positive. My daily meditation practice has been invaluable for handling challenges.
3. Empathy and Perspective-taking: Understanding others' experiences broadens your perspective and fosters inclusivity.
4. Resilience and Cognitive Restructuring: Reframing challenges as temporary and specific helps build resilience and optimism. Recently, my husband reminded me that big changes aren’t permanent, and we can always adapt.

Shifting your mindset is an ongoing journey. Integrating these strategies into daily life can promote continuous growth.

What are the biggest mindset shifts you've experienced? How have they benefited you?

#GrowthMindset #MindsetShift #PersonalDevelopment #Leadership