What Is A Growth Mindset?

Hi there! In this newsletter, I will define a growth and fixed mindset and identify practical ways to develop a growth mindset. I am always open to your feedback. Enjoy.

Learn to be comfortable outside your comfort zone.

The distraction industry is a growth industry for good reason. We spend vast amounts of our precious time on things that numb us to the realities of life―such as mindlessly scrolling the internet and social media for hours or watching Netflix to the point of restlessness. We understandably want to escape from the pressures of life.

Entertainment is fun—and necessary—

• But how much time do we spend on personal growth?
• How often do we set aside time for self-development, where we can learn and grow?in a way that defines our destiny? Probably not enough time.

As Ernest Hemingway reminds us,

There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.

What Is A Fixed Mindset?

The self-leadership practice of Keep Growing begins with a growth mindset. Carol Dweck is the pioneer in the study of fixed versus growth mindsets. Dweck argues that predicting success in all walks of life has more to do with one’s mindset than innate talent. What matters more than born traits, in other words, is self-belief.

More specifically, a fixed mindset assumes that abilities and talents are God-given and unchanging. It therefore stands to reason that if one thinks that their talent—or lack of talent—is inherent, they’ll also believe that their capacity to improve is limited. Put simply, if a person deems that they were born with set traits, both positive and negative, then these assets and liabilities are generally fixed throughout life.

So, someone harboring a fixed mindset is less inclined to commit to a path of personal growth. With a belief that we have inherent characteristics, one will assume that learning opportunities—no matter how effective—won’t make much difference. Like Popeye, the Sailor Man, the fictional cartoon character, a person with a fixed mindset may rationalize that I am what I am, and that’s all I am.

A person harboring a fixed mindset is fixated on the idea that it’s futile to try and raise their expectations for a better future beyond their perceived talents. In other words, with a fixed mindset, while one’s studying and attending education programs, they believe they (and everybody else) have a restricted aptitude for personal change.

What About Someone With A Growth Mindset?

People with a growth mindset believe they can grow and develop new skills and capabilities with proper training and development. Because talent is malleable and not fixed, they are motivated to explore opportunities to improve, expand, and hone their abilities. Besides capitalizing on their strengths, a person with a growth mindset is prepared to improve in areas they have less aptitude for. They see these areas as opportunities to grow rather than weaknesses.

A Growth Mindset Is Crucial For Effective Leadership

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

1. The first thing is to believe you can change—that you aren’t stuck with an innate predisposition.
2. You can take responsibility for your growth. It’s easy (and convenient) to blame circumstances or others for one’s shortcomings.
3. Be curious—it’s integral to one’s self-awareness and growth. Instead of clinging to what we know, marvel at how much we don’t know.
4. Please just allow yourself to fail. As uncomfortable as it is, challenge yourself—failing is unavoidable occasionally.
5. Learn to be comfortable outside your comfort zone. Your comfort zone shouldn’t be a refuge— a place to go and be free from life’s trials.
6. Please remember your efforts. Being too fixated on outcomes can be disheartening. Results do count in the end, but it’s essential to acknowledge the journey along the way.
7. Try not to compare yourself with others obsessively. When we’re too preoccupied with how we stack up against others, it inexorably breeds jealousy and envy.
8. Don’t let your ego get in the way. Your ego is your protection mechanism—with a fear of failure—it can prevent you from trying new things. Having a growth mindset pushes you into spaces where you feel less comfortable, less accomplished, and more uncertain.

Baker, T.B. (2025). Successful Self-Leadership: An Inside-Out Approach in Seven Steps. New York: Business Expert Press.

What Are The Seven Practices Of Self-Leadership?

Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and become stronger—embrace setbacks as stepping stones to success. With a growth mindset, you unlock your true potential by focusing on progress, not perfection. Believe in your ability to improve, and watch how perseverance turns obstacles into achievements!

Feel free to share this approach with your colleagues.

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