34. Growth Mindset

A person with a “Growth Mindset” is able to utilize self-compassion (see previous blog/ reel on self-compassion) to give themselves grace and to know that in order to get better at something, it's just going to take a little more time and practice.

This is the opposite of having a “Fixed Mindset,” which is a typical unhelpful pattern of thinking (aka Cognitive Distortion) that “I am either good at this or bad at this,” leaving no room for growth. We call this black-and-white or all-or-nothing thinking.

A helpful little tip I like to offer to clients is to add the word “yet” to the end of one of these sentences… Check this out: “I am not good at cooking.” vs. “I am not good at cooking… Yet!” Do you see how just by adding that one little word “yet” you leave the opportunity for more growth and practice in order to improve at something?

This is super helpful for adults and especially helpful for children who are struggling with math, soccer, piano, etc. Let them know that with more practice, time, and the growth mindset, they can get better at anything to which they put their mind!

— Emily Duncan, LCSW
Duncan Counseling, LLC
Therapy for bright young women in TN, KY, FL