Mindsets and Success, is there a link?

What sets truly successful people apart from those who never realise their dreams and accept life is just the way it is?

Is it a particular set of habits? An increased appetite for risk? Skill at networking? Plain old smarty pants? No doubt each of these factors plays a part in some people's achievements, but perhaps underlying all of these differences is a particular and profoundly powerful mindset.

Is all success and failure really down to mindset & beliefs?

That's the gist of several fascinating articles out recently; they argue the fundamental difference between the highly successful and the merely mediocre is not an inborn trait or characteristic or individual learned behaviour but how we think about skills and learning in general.

Can People Really Change?

Some folks, it seems, think that, basically, when it comes to skills and abilities, you get the hand you're dealt, and that's that “Really”?

You are born to be mediocre, you make your bed and you lie in it?

They believe that no matter how smart you are, however hardworking you are, there's little to nothing you can do to change these fundamental traits or characteristics of your personality.

That's called a fixed mindset viewpoint

Other people know differently. Those with the opposite view, have a growth mindset, we believe that with effort and perseverance, you can expand your intellect, broaden your skills, improve your traits & character, and overcome any obstacles. They see the key to getting ahead not as inherited talent or skill but good, old-fashioned hard work, self-development and continuous learning.

 Any guess as to who ends up more successful?

If you haven't guessed yet it's Growth Mindset that wins every time, achievers generally have a growth mindset, a fact proven in large part by the research of renowned Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck.

In a lengthy and fascinating article, PolicyMic recently delved into her findings in depth, but the basic takeaway is short and sweet: "It's all about your mindset.

All success and failure stats with the mindset Successful people tend to focus on growth, solving problems, and self-improvement, while unsuccessful people think of their abilities as fixed assets and avoid challenges."

How to develop a Growth Mindset

Dweck may be a pioneer in this line of research, but she's not the only scientist studying the profound effects of our mindset on success and the mindset of highly successful people.

Another recent study built on her work by polling high school students about their attitudes. Some students told the research team that they believed people fell into particular categories--some were geeks, for instance, others jocks--and that in general, they're unlikely to change over time. Others told the scientists that people generally adapt and grow.

What effect did the belief that people can change have on students? Though Dweck's work suggests those with a growth mindset will be more successful in the long term, this recent study also found big effects in the short term. In short, those with a growth mindset had less stress and anxiety and more self-esteem, and they were in generally better physical health.

That's even more compelling evidence you should strive for a growth mindset. But is it possible to change your outlook if you've previously been more of a believer that abilities are fixed?

Simply telling someone in a single coaching session that evidence shows people can change by changing the way they think and taking control of the way they think had large positive effects both physically and psychologically a year later, with no other follow-up.

If they can do it, so can you. You'll be more successful for it. Your success is nothing more (or less) than what you envision it to be, and your determination to act in a manner consistent with that picture. If success has eluded you thus far, perhaps it's time to change your picture and try something different.

The Power Within’s Employee and Leadership Development programs and workshops can be designed and delivered over 1, 2, 3 or 4 days and up to 12 months and can be modified & adjusted specifically for each individual business, employee engagement or level of participants.

“Too soon and too often is better than too late and not enough”

SOLD: Advanced Sales & Leadership Mindset Accelerator Program focusing on the Mindset & Peak Performance of success.

Are you ready to drive performance and productivity to create increased profitability?

Simply inbox me here or email me briefly detailing your goals and challenges you are facing. I will then happily arrange a FREE strategy call with you, after which you are free to choose the best course of action.

James Fleming

The Power Within Training & Development

[email protected]

07479 010 355