My Thoughts on Growth Mindset

Growth Mindset Replacement Poster created by Students. Web Source: Twitter @MsBeekman5th

I had never heard of Carol Dweck or the Growth Mindset before watching that Growth Mindset video. I found her whole theory very interesting to listen to. It was fascinating to me the level of research that went into her studies of this topic and what was even more fascinating to me was the results of her studies. I think Parents and Teachers are stuck in their ways when it comes to praise and teaching. For hundreds of years Parents have been told to praise their children to build their child's confidence little did these parents know that it may have been the worse thing they could be doing with regards to their future learning.

A fixed mindset is a negative term in my opinion, now after watching that video, this word 'fixed' reminds me of the word small-minded. Unfortunately a lot of our generation have this fixed mindset simply because we have been praised the wrong way our whole lives. People with a fixed mindset aren't as excited and eager to learn as someone with a growth mindset. They do not get a thrill from learning new things. They find learning new things intimidating and would way rather stay in their comfort zone.

I do not believe I have a fixed mindset when it comes to learning, I find repetition boring, I would rather challenge myself and learn something new. I believe it keeps your brain healthy. I've always thought of my brain as a never-ending sponge - the capacity cannot be obtained; I was always thought this by my parents. You can never learn too much.

I would like to explore this topic throughout the year. I think it is a new and innovative way of praising which I am excited to learn more about.

There is something new to learn each day, you will never know everything and I was always reminded of that growing up. This kept my head on my shoulders and kept me eager to learn, reminding me that I don't have to be the best at everything I do, as long as I try my best that is all that matters.