growth mindset problem solving

People with a 'growth mindset' are better problem-solving — here are 4 ways to develop one, according to experts

• People with healthy growth mindsets are often more curious and motivated to learn new things.
• Researchers from Yale-NUS College say this mindset can be developed with practice.
• Instead of expecting to simply "find" your passions, make an effort to nurture and develop them.

Problem-solving may be among the more underrated skills. Research from Yale-NUS College suggests we can improve our problem-solving skills with something called a "growth mindset."

What are growth mindsets?

People with growth mindsets see interest or a spark of curiosity as something that can be developed, explains Paul O'Keefe, an assistant professor of psychology at Yale-NUS College.

"By understanding interest is [a] thing that develops over time, maybe with interaction with getting involved with commitment, [growth mindsets] build over time and grow and become interests," O'Keefe said.

O'Keefe's team's 2021 study builds on earlier work. Its research thus far suggests that the benefits of cultivating growth mindsets are plentiful, including adaptability, innovative thinking, and problem-solving.

How to develop a growth mindset

If you went to a liberal-arts school, you may already be further along than you think, since liberal-arts education focuses on broadening students' knowledge with a foundation in a variety of disciplines. This supports the growth theory of interest from an educational standpoint.

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In contrast, O'Keefe's research indicates students who believe their interests lie in limited areas are "not as inclined to see how outside areas of knowledge can be connected and integrated with their existing interests." 

1. Feed your curiosity

People with growth mindsets are often more curious and motivated to learn. When you don't know something and absolutely have to know it, chances are you consult Google. In " The Science of Interest ," O'Keefe and Judith Harackiewicz say "interest" can be sparked by a desire to fill gaps in our knowledge.

Whether you're looking up why clouds are shaped a certain way or watching YouTube tutorials on how to play the harmonica, you're doing it because you don't know and you want to know.

2. Rethink 'finding your passion'

Have you ever noticed how influential figures talk about "finding your calling"? Well, it turns out the idea that your passion is just there, waiting for you to find it if you look hard enough, may just not be true. 

O'Keefe's research calls this idea (of a passion waiting to be found) a "fixed mindset of interests." People with fixed mindsets of interest believe their interests are already there, inherent within them, and just need to be revealed. 

Erik Weisz didn't wake up and realize he was a magician overnight; he spent years practicing and developing tricks before he became Harry Houdini. In reality, instead of finding our passions, we need to take the time and effort to nurture them.

3. Become a 't-shaped' person

Though great things can come from developing one expertise, O'Keefe stresses that the potential for innovation when you color outside the lines is tremendous.

"Once we start to expand our focus outside of our silo of say, interests, we start to understand the value of other information," O'Keefe said. "And we begin to see connections between what we know already from our own interests, and connecting it to new interests."

"One of the things they do at their organization is that they hire people who they call 'T-shaped' people." T-shaped people have a singular pillar of expertise or interest with broader interests. "They might not be experts in another area, but they certainly have some basic knowledge, some interests that are far-reaching."

4. Look at your work environment

At an organizational level, growth mindsets can be underestimated. Think of the old-school finance giant that hired the best of the best in marketing, sales, finance, etc. Those hires went on to compose tighter groups of highly specialized professionals. 

But when you hire diverse teams, "you don't get people who are all just thinking from one discipline," O'Keefe explained. "You're getting people who have been exposed to different ideas."

What's more, you can't be the "logical" person of the team who looks down on the "artsy" person in the group. People with growth mindsets value being around people they can learn from. So, the next time you're at a conference or networking event, rather than seek out the people you'd have the most in common with, branch out and talk to the person you'd never ordinarily cross paths with. Maybe you'll learn a thing or two.

Correction: September 8, 2023 — An earlier version of this story misstated the name of the college where Paul O'Keefe works. It's Yale-NUS College, not Yale-National University of Singapore.

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How to develop a problem-solving mindset

May 14, 2023 Leaders today are confronted with more problems, of greater magnitude, than ever before. In these volatile times, it’s natural to react based on what’s worked best in the past. But when you’re solving the toughest business challenges on an ongoing basis, it’s crucial to start from a place of awareness. “If you are in an uncertain situation, the most important thing you can do is calm down,” says senior partner Aaron De Smet , who coauthored Deliberate Calm  with Jacqueline Brassey  and Michiel Kruyt. “Take a breath. Take stock. ‘Is the thing I’m about to do the right thing to do?’ And in many cases, the answer is no. If you were in a truly uncertain environment, if you’re in new territory, the thing you would normally do might not be the right thing.” Practicing deliberate calm not only prepares you to deal with the toughest problems, but it enhances the quality of your decisions, makes you more productive, and enables you to be a better leader. Check out these insights to learn how to develop a problem-solving mindset—and understand why the solution to any problem starts with you.

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Growth Mindset

The ultimate growth mindset exercise, relate to your mind like a tantruming child..

Posted May 11, 2021 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

• When presented with a challenge, an individual with a growth mindset sees it as a prime opportunity to grow, no matter what the outcome.
• The foundation needed for building a growth mindset is enhancing our self-compassion/belief during moments of adversity and emotional discomfort.
• With unrelenting nurturance for ourselves, we will continue to believe in our ability to grow and change and will put in the necessary effort.

The term growth mindset was coined by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck and colleagues. It stipulates the belief that a person's talents, intelligence , and abilities can be developed and improved over time through effort, dedication, and hard work. With a growth mindset , we can break through stuckness and achieve the long-term goals we desire to enhance ourselves in our relationships, in our work, or in any other aspects of our lives.

Individuals with a growth mindset seek opportunities to learn, gain new skills, and enhance their existing skills. When presented with a challenge, an individual with a growth mindset sees it as a prime opportunity to grow, no matter what the outcome. They believe that being proactive and action-oriented can help them advance and thrive. The fixed mindset postulates: “I can’t do it.” The growth mindset postulates: “I can’t do it yet.”

In her book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success , Carol Dweck states:

The growth mindset is based on the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts. Although people may differ in every which way in their initial talents and aptitudes, interests, or temperaments, everyone can change and grow through application and experience.

The foundation needed for building a growth mindset is enhancing our self-compassion and self-belief, especially during moments of adversity and emotional discomfort. If we have unrelenting nurturance for ourselves, we will continue to believe in our ability to grow and change and will put in the effort needed to facilitate it.

How to foster your growth mindset

Here is a metaphor to consider for helping you increase your self-compassion and self-belief in order to foster your growth mindset: Simply relate to your mind as a tantruming child. Consider that a child’s basic human nature is good even though they are having a tantruming moment.

Self-reflect : Our thoughts are just something we have; they are not indicative of who we are. Having “mean” thoughts doesn’t make us a “mean” person. When we are having one of those “moments” it is a prime opportunity to be inquisitive and seek to understand ourselves better.

• You can’t take at face value what a tantruming child says during a tantrum. He or she is acting out of extreme levels of heightened emotional states such as impulsivity, anger , frustration, etc.

Self-reflect : When we are experiencing extreme levels of emotional states such as anxiety , anger, hopelessness, etc. we cannot fully rely on what our mind is conveying to us about the way we are thinking and feeling. The thoughts and feelings are usually very exaggerated and disparaging and are coming from a place of irrationality, inflexibility, and exasperation. It is best to wait on problem-solving and making decisions when mindfulness is much more likely to get carried out.

• During a tantrum, it is best not to react angrily, berate, or join in on the chaos because it will result in the tantrum being prolonged and the child becoming more incensed.

Self-reflect : When we are at a fully heightened emotional state, it is counterproductive to dismiss, berate, or shame ourselves for our thoughts or feelings. The lack of compassion just contributes to further negative thoughts and feelings about ourselves, a deeper state of hopelessness, and prolongs personal healing and the working through of our challenges.

• It is best not to react to the direct emotions of the tantruming child but rather to get to the context of their feelings that is underlining their reaction so you can work through it with them.

Self-reflect : As humans, we all act and react based on the emotions that get evoked. Anger is a secondary feeling which is coached in a primary feeling such as disappointment, frustration, or hurt. We should not take the display of anger or another emotion that we are having at face value but rather get underneath the primary feeling that may be compelling the reaction so that we can actively and healthfully work through it.

• You would not try to talk your tantruming child out of their feelings or invalidate the feelings that they have. This response would provoke them instead of making them feel supported and comforted. You would recognize the value of your child having the feelings and not just look to “kiss it away.” You would want to talk it through with them and lead them to experience the feelings but not necessarily speak and act on behalf of them.

Self-reflect : When we are having difficult or uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, leaving our comfort zone and fully experiencing whatever shows up is truly where the growth happens. Our nervous system gets alerted, while our prefrontal cortex learns to decipher between genuine versus perceived threats. We learn to cope better by being with rather than rejecting, disregarding, and trying to get rid of these thoughts and feelings which show up no matter how hard we try to push them away. There’s great value in learning how to tolerate frustration and just being with all feelings that show up, especially the difficult and uncomfortable ones. This leads to our self-empowerment, self-growth, and personal development.

• Showing empathy, compassion, and love during a tantrum will help soothe the tantruming child. We need to carry out those actions compelling our parenting values of connectedness, even if we do not necessarily feel those particular feelings in the moment.

Self-reflect : When we are exasperated, what will truly lead us to openness for self-exploration, insight, learning, and the changing of habits and behaviors is us acting from a place of personal self-belief, self-love, and self-compassion. We need to make a concerted effort to carry these actions out, irrespective of being fully connecting to them, because it is truly what we need and what will be helpful for us.

The Tibetan Buddhist nun Pema Chodron eloquently stated, “The more we get to know our mind, the more we foster a connection to it. We begin to soften, open up, and become curious about ourselves and others.”

If only we would relate to our minds as we do to a tantruming child. If we were to, it would open us up to being more loving, compassionate, and nurturing toward ourselves. Our self-compassion and self-belief foster our self-confidence and compels us toward a growth mindset. It accelerates us toward a life in which we initiate, make concerted efforts, and take action toward our life’s goals and being our very best self.

Here is a Mountain Guided Meditation for Inspiration led by me.

Michelle P. Maidenberg, Ph.D., MPH, LCSW-R, CGP maintains a private practice in Harrison, NY. She is an adjunct graduate professor of Mindfulness Practice at New York University and the president and clinical director of the Thru My Eyes Foundation. My new book is ACE Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want.

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Problem-Solving Mindset: How to Achieve It (15 Ways)

One of the most valuable skills you can have in life is a problem-solving mindset. It means that you see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than obstacles to avoid or complain about. A problem-solving mindset helps you overcome difficulties, achieve your goals, and constantly improve yourself. By developing a problem-solving mindset, you can become more confident, creative, and resilient in any situation.A well-defined problem paves the way for targeted, effective solutions. Resist the urge to jump straight into fixing things. Invest the time upfront to truly understand what needs to be solved. Starting with the end in mind will make the path to resolution that much smoother.

Sanju Pradeepa

* This Post may contain affiliate Links, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you using such links. *

Ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut with no way out? We’ve all been there. The problems life throws at us can seem insurmountable. But the truth is, you have everything you need to overcome any challenge already within you. It’s called a problem-solving mindset. Developing the ability to see problems as puzzles to solve rather than obstacles to overcome is a game changer. With the right mindset, you can achieve amazing things.

In this article, we’ll explore what having a problem-solving mindset really means and how you can cultivate one for yourself. You’ll learn proven techniques to shift your perspective, expand your creativity, and find innovative solutions to your biggest problems. We’ll look at examples of people who have used a problem-solving mindset to accomplish extraordinary feats. By the end, you’ll have the tools and inspiration to transform how you think about and approach problems in your own life.

Table of Contents

What is a problem-solving mindset.

A problem solving mindset is all about approaching challenges in a solution-focused way. Rather than feeling defeated by obstacles, you look at them as puzzles to solve. Developing this mindset takes practice, but the rewards of increased resilience, creativity and confidence make it worth the effort.

• Identify problems, not excuses. Rather than blaming external factors, look for the issues within your control. Ask yourself, “What’s really going on here and what can I do about it?”
• Focus on solutions, not problems. Once you’ve pinpointed the issue, brainstorm options to fix it. Don’t get stuck in a negative loop. Shift your mindset to answer the question, “What are some possible solutions?”
• Look for opportunities, not obstacles. Reframe the way you view problems. See them as chances to improve and learn, rather than roadblocks stopping your progress. Ask, “What’s the opportunity or lesson here?”
• Start small and build up. Don’t feel overwhelmed by big challenges. Break them into manageable steps and celebrate small wins along the way. Solving little problems builds your confidence to tackle bigger issues.

Be patient with yourself and maintain an open and curious attitude . With regular practice, you’ll get better at seeing the solutions, rather than the obstacles. You’ll become more flexible and innovative in your thinking. And you’ll discover that you have the ability to solve problems you once thought insurmountable. That’s the power of a problem-solving mindset.

Why Developing a Problem Solving Mindset Is Important

Developing a problem-solving mindset is crucial these days. Why? Because life throws curveballs at us constantly and the only way to overcome them is through creative solutions.

Having a problem-solving mindset means you view challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. You approach them with curiosity and optimism instead of dread. This allows you to see problems from new angles and come up with innovative solutions.

Some key characteristics of a problem-solving mindset include:

• Flexibility. You’re open to different perspectives and willing to consider alternative options.
• Creativity. You think outside the box and make unexpected connections between ideas.
• Persistence. You don’t give up easily in the face of difficulties or setbacks. You continue experimenting and adjusting your approach.
• Adaptability. You accept change and are able to quickly adjust your strategies or plans to suit new situations.
• Resourcefulness. You make the most of what you have access to and find ways to overcome limitations.

Developing a problem-solving mindset takes conscious effort and practice.

The Key Characteristics of Effective Problem Solvers

To become an effective problem solver, you need to develop certain characteristics and mindsets. Here are some of the key traits shared by great problem solvers:

1. Openness to New Ideas

Effective problem solvers have an open and curious mind. They seek out new ways of looking at problems and solutions. Rather than dismissing ideas that seem “out there,” they explore various options with an open mind.

2. Flexibility

Great problem solvers are flexible in their thinking. They can see problems from multiple perspectives and are willing to adapt their approach. If one solution isn’t working, they try another. They understand that there are many paths to solving a problem.

3. Persistence

Solving complex problems often requires persistence and determination. Effective problem solvers don’t give up easily. They continue exploring options and trying new solutions until they find one that works. They see setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures.

Why Persistence is Important: 8 Benefits & 6 Ways to Develop

4. creativity.

Innovative problem solvers think outside the box . They make unexpected connections and come up with unconventional solutions. They utilize techniques like brainstorming, mind mapping, and lateral thinking to spark new ideas.

5. Analytical Thinking

While creativity is key, problem solvers also need to be able to evaluate solutions in a logical and analytical manner. They need to be able to determine the pros and cons, costs and benefits, and potential obstacles or issues with any solution. They rely on data, evidence, and objective reasoning to make decisions.

7 Types of Critical Thinking: A Guide to Analyzing Problems

How to cultivate a problem-solving mindset.

To cultivate a problem-solving mindset, you need to develop certain habits and ways of thinking. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Look for Opportunities to Solve Problems

The more you practice problem solving, the better you’ll get at it. Look for opportunities in your daily life to solve small problems. This could be figuring out a better way to organize your tasks at work or coming up with a solution to traffic in your neighborhood. Start with small, low-risk problems and work your way up to more complex challenges.

2. Ask Good Questions

One of the most important skills in problem solving is asking good questions. Questions help you gain a deeper understanding of the issue and uncover new perspectives. Ask open-ended questions like:

• What’s the real problem here?
• What are the underlying causes?
• Who does this impact and how?
• What has been tried before? What worked and what didn’t?

3. Do Your Research

Don’t go into problem solving blind. Do some research to gather relevant facts and data about the situation. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to come up with innovative solutions. Talk to people with different viewpoints and life experiences to gain new insights.

4. Brainstorm Many Options

When you start thinking of solutions, don’t settle for the first idea that comes to mind. Brainstorm many options to open up possibilities. The more choices you have, the more likely you are to discover an unconventional solution that really fits the needs of the situation. Think outside the box!

5. Evaluate and Decide

Once you have a list of possible solutions, evaluate each option objectively based on criteria like cost, time, and effectiveness. Get input from others if needed. Then make a decision and take action. Even if it’s not the perfect solution, you can make changes as you go based on feedback and results.

6. Question your beliefs

The beliefs and assumptions you hold can influence how you perceive and solve problems. Ask yourself:

• What beliefs or stereotypes do I have about this situation or the people involved?
• Are these beliefs grounded in facts or just my personal experiences?
• How might my beliefs be limiting my thinking?

Challenging your beliefs helps you see the problem with fresh eyes and identify new solutions.

The Ultimate Guide of Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs

7. seek different perspectives.

Get input from people with different backgrounds, experiences, and thought processes than your own. Their unique perspectives can reveal new insights and spark innovative ideas. Some ways to gain new perspectives include:

• Discuss the problem with colleagues from different departments or areas of expertise.
• Interview customers or clients to understand their needs and priorities.
• Consult experts in unrelated fields for an outside-the-box opinion.
• Crowdsource solutions from people of diverse ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

8. Look beyond the obvious

We tend to focus on the most conspicuous or straightforward solutions, but the best option isn’t always obvious. Try these techniques to stimulate unconventional thinking:

• Restate the problem in new ways. A new phrasing can reveal alternative solutions.
• Remove constraints and imagine an ideal scenario. Then work backwards to find realistic options.
• Make unexpected associations between the problem and unrelated concepts or objects. Look for parallels and analogies in different domains.
• Play with hypothetical scenarios to find combinations you may not logically deduce. Some of the wildest ideas can lead to innovative solutions!

With an open and curious mindset, you can overcome assumptions, gain new insights, and find unconventional solutions to your most complex problems. The key is looking at the situation in new ways and exploring all possibilities.

Mindset is Everything: Reprogram Your Thinking for Success

9. practice active listening.

To become an effective problem solver, you need to practice active listening. This means paying close attention to what others are saying and asking follow-up questions to gain a deeper understanding of the issues.

Listen without judgment

When someone is explaining a problem to you, listen with an open mind. Avoid interrupting or criticizing them. Your role is to understand their perspective and concerns, not pass judgment. Nod, make eye contact, and give verbal affirmations like “I see” or “go on” to show you’re engaged.

Ask clarifying questions

If something is unclear or you need more details, ask questions. Say something like, “Can you explain that in more detail?” or “What specifically do you mean by that?” The more information you have about the problem, the better equipped you’ll be to solve it. Ask open-ended questions to encourage the other person to elaborate on their points.

Paraphrase and summarize

Repeat back parts of what the speaker said in your own words to confirm you understood them correctly. Say something like, “It sounds like the main issues are…” or “To summarize, the key points you’re making are…” This also shows the other person you were paying attention and care about addressing their actual concerns.

10. Withhold suggestions initially

When someone first presents you with a problem, avoid immediately suggesting solutions. Your first task is to understand the issue thoroughly. If you start proposing solutions too soon, it can seem like you’re not really listening and are just waiting for your turn to talk. Get clarification, summarize the issues, and ask any follow up questions needed before offering your input on how to solve the problem.

Developing the patience and discipline to actively listen takes practice. But by listening without judgment, asking clarifying questions, paraphrasing, and withholding suggestions initially, you’ll gain valuable insight into problems and be better equipped to solve them. Active listening is a skill that will serve you well in all areas of life.

11. Ask Lots of Questions

To solve problems effectively, you need to ask lots of questions. Questioning helps you gain a deeper understanding of the issue, uncover hidden factors, and open your mind to new solutions.

Asking “why” helps you determine the root cause of the problem. Keep asking “why” until you reach the underlying reason. For example, if sales numbers are down, ask why. The answer may be that you lost a key client. Ask why you lost the client. The answer could be poor customer service. Ask why the customer service was poor. And so on. Getting to the root cause is key to finding the right solution.

Challenge Assumptions

We all have implicit assumptions and biases that influence our thinking. Challenge any assumptions you have about the problem by asking questions like:

• What if the opposite is true?
• What are we missing or ignoring?
• What do we think is impossible but perhaps isn’t?

Questioning your assumptions opens you up to new perspectives and innovative solutions.

12. Consider Different Viewpoints

Try to see the problem from multiple angles by asking:

• How do others see this problem?
• What solutions might employees, customers, or experts suggest?
• What would someone from a different industry or background recommend?

Getting input from people with diverse experiences and ways of thinking will lead to better solutions.

13. Brainstorm New Possibilities

Once you have a good understanding of the root problem, start generating new solutions by asking open-ended questions like:

• What if anything were possible, what solutions come to mind?
• What are some wild and crazy ideas, even if implausible?
• What solutions have we not yet thought of?

Don’t judge or evaluate ideas at this stage. Just let the questions spark new creative solutions. The more questions you ask, the more solutions you’ll discover. With an inquisitive mindset, you’ll be well on your way to solving any problem.

14. Document what you find

As you research, keep notes on key details, facts, statistics, examples, and advice that stand out as most relevant or interesting. Look for common themes and threads across the different resources. Organize your notes by topic or theme to get a better sense of the big picture. Refer back to your notes to recall important points as you evaluate options and determine next steps.

Doing thorough research arms you with the knowledge and understanding to develop effective solutions. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the problem and be able to make more informed choices. Research also exposes you to new ideas you may not have considered. While it requires an investment of time, research is a crucial step for achieving an optimal solution.

15. Start With the End in Mind: Define the Problem Clearly

To solve a problem effectively, you need to first define it clearly. Without a concrete understanding of the issue at hand, you’ll waste time and energy grappling with a vague, nebulous challenge.

Identify the root cause

Ask probing questions to determine the underlying reason for the problem. Get specific by figuring out who is affected, what’s not working, where the breakdown is happening, when it started, and why it’s an issue. Look beyond the symptoms to find the source. The solution lies in resolving the root cause, not just alleviating surface-level pain points.

Gather objective data

Rely on facts, not opinions or assumptions. Observe the situation directly and collect information from multiple sources. Get input from people with different perspectives. Hard data and evidence will give you an accurate, unbiased view of the problem.

Define constraints and priorities

Determine any restrictions around time, money, resources, or policies that could impact your solution. Also identify what’s most important to solve—you can’t fix everything at once. Focus on high-priority issues and leave lower-priority problems for another time.

Frame the problem statement

With a clear understanding of the root cause, supporting data, and constraints, you can craft a concise problem statement. This articulates the issue in 1 or 2 sentences and serves as a guiding vision for developing solutions. Refer back to your problem statement regularly to ensure you stay on track.

Final Thought

Developing a problem-solving mindset is within your reach if you commit to continuous learning, looking at challenges from new angles, and not being afraid to fail. Start small by picking one problem each day to solve in a creative way. Build up your confidence and skills over time through practice.

While it may feel uncomfortable at first, having an adaptable and solution-focused mindset will serve you well in all areas of life. You’ll be able to navigate obstacles and setbacks with more ease and grace. And who knows, you may even start to enjoy the problem-solving process and see problems as opportunities in disguise. The problem-solving mindset is a gift that keeps on giving. Now go out there, face your challenges head on, and solve away!

Solve It!: The Mindset and Tools of Smart Problem Solvers by  Dietmar Sternad

• Creative Problem Solving as Overcoming a Misunderstanding by Maria Bagassi  and  Laura Macchi * (Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy) ,
• Mindsets: A View From Two Eras by Carol S. Dweck 1  and  David S. Yeager 2 published in National Library of Medicine ( Perspect Psychol Sci.  Author manuscript; available in PMC 2020 May 1. Published in final edited form as: Perspect Psychol Sci. 2019 May; 14(3): 481–496. )

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With regular practice, a problem solving mindset can become second nature. You’ll get better at seeing opportunities, asking the right questions, uncovering creative solutions, and taking action. And that will make you a highly valuable thinker in any organization or team.

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6 Steps To Develop A Problem-Solving Mindset That Boosts Productivity

Problem-controlled approach vs. problem-solving approach, benefits of a problem-solving mindset, 6 steps to develop a problem-solving mindset, characteristics of a manager with a problem-solving mindset, problem-solving mindset examples for managers, frequently asked questions.

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What is a problem-solving mindset?

• Better decision-making:  A problem-solving mindset helps managers analyze problems more effectively and generate various possible solutions. This leads to more informed decision-making , which is critical for effective leadership.
• Improved productivity:  By addressing problems proactively, managers can prevent potential obstacles from becoming major issues that impact productivity . A problem-solving mindset can help managers to anticipate and prevent problems before they occur, leading to smoother operations and higher productivity.
• Enhanced teamwork:  Encouraging a problem-solving mindset among team members fosters a culture of collaboration and encourages open communication. This can lead to stronger teamwork , as team members are more likely to work together to identify and solve problems.
• Improved morale:  When managers take a proactive approach to problem-solving, they demonstrate their commitment to their team’s success. This can improve morale and build trust and respect between managers and team members.
• Better outcomes:  Ultimately, a problem solving mindset leads to better outcomes. By effectively identifying and addressing problems, managers can improve processes, reduce costs, and enhance overall performance.
• Acknowledge the issue:   Instead of avoiding or dismissing the problem, the first step in adopting a problem-solving mindset is to embrace it. Accept the problem and commit to trying to find a solution.
• Focus on the solutions:  Shift your attention from the problem to the solution by concentrating on it. Then, work towards the result by visualizing it.
• Come up with all possible solutions:  Create a list of all potential answers, even those that appear unusual or out of the ordinary. Avoid dismissing ideas prematurely and encourage creative thinking.
• Analyze the root cause:  After coming up with a list of viable solutions. Finding the fundamental reason enables you to solve the problem and stop it from happening again.
• Take on a new perspective:  Sometimes, a new viewpoint might result in game-breakthrough solutions.  Consider looking at the problem differently, considering other people’s perspectives, or questioning your presumptions.
• Implement solutions and monitor them:    Choose the best course of action, then implement it. Keep an eye on the findings and make changes as needed. Use what you learn from the process to sharpen your problem-solving skills.

• Positive attitude:  A problem-solving manager approaches challenges with a positive and proactive mindset, focused on solutions rather than problems.
• Analytical thinking:  A problem-solving manager breaks down complex challenges into smaller, more manageable pieces and identifies the underlying causes of difficulties because of their strong analytical skills .
• Creativity:  A manager with a problem solving mindset think outside the box to solve difficulties and problems.
• Flexibility:  A manager with a problem-solving mindset can change their problem-solving strategy depending on the circumstances. They are receptive to new ideas and other viewpoints.
• Collaboration:  A manager who prioritizes problem-solving understands the value of collaboration and teamwork. They value team members’ feedback and are skilled at bringing diverse perspectives together to develop creative solutions.
• Strategic thinking:  A problem-solving manager thinks strategically , considering the long-term consequences of their decisions and solutions. They can balance short-term fixes with long-term objectives.
• Continuous improvement:  A problem-solving manager is dedicated to continuous improvement, always looking for new ways to learn and improve their problem-solving skills. They use feedback and analysis to improve their approach and achieve better results.
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• A manager listens actively to a team member’s concerns and identifies the root cause of a problem before brainstorming potential solutions.
• A manager encourages team members to collaborate and share ideas to solve a challenging problem.
• A manager takes a proactive approach to address potential obstacles, anticipating challenges and taking steps to prevent them from becoming major issues.
• A manager analyzes data and feedback to identify patterns and insights that can inform more effective problem-solving.
• A manager uses various tools and techniques, such as brainstorming , SWOT analysis, or root cause analysis, to identify and address problems.
• To inform about problem-solving, a manager seeks input and feedback from various sources, including team members, stakeholders, and subject matter experts.
• A manager encourages experimentation and risk-taking, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity.
• A manager takes ownership of problems rather than blaming others or deflecting responsibility.
• A manager is willing to admit mistakes and learn from failures rather than become defensive or dismissive.
• A manager focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems or obstacles.
• A manager can adapt and pivot as needed, being flexible and responsive to changing circumstances or new information.

Suprabha Sharma

Suprabha, a versatile professional who blends expertise in human resources and psychology, bridges the divide between people management and personal growth with her novel perspectives at Risely. Her experience as a human resource professional has empowered her to visualize practical solutions for frequent managerial challenges that form the pivot of her writings.

Are your problem solving skills sharp enough to help you succeed?

Find out now with the help of Risely’s problem-solving assessment for managers and team leaders.

Do I have a problem-solving mindset? 

What is a growth mindset for problem-solving , what is problem mindset vs. solution mindset , what is a problem-solving attitude.

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How to Tap Into a Growth Mindset and Crush Your Goals

Grow on, girl

Alice Morgan for Verywell Mind / Getty Images

• What's a Growth Mindset?
• Characteristics
• Developing a Growth Mindset

Overcoming Obstacles and Setbacks with a Growth Mindset

When we're chasing our goals , the secret to success might just be in the way we approach them. We can choose to adopt a growth mindset or a fixed mindset.

Being willing to put in the hard work and being open to learning are signs of a growth mindset. The trick is to believe that we can improve our skills and abilities if we put in the effort.

On the other hand, a fixed mindset has us believing that we either have what it takes or we don’t. This mindset can be limiting because it keeps us from learning and growing.

Ashley Peña, LCSW, executive director at Mission Connection

A simple example of a fixed mindset versus a growth mindset is 'I’m not good at yoga,' versus 'I’m not good at yoga yet.'

Your mindset truly is your secret weapon when it comes to achieving your goals, says Octavia Goredema , a career coach and author of “Prep, Push, Pivot.”

Remind Me Again—What Is a Growth Mindset?

The concept of a growth mindset was first introduced by Dr. Carol Dweck, an American psychologist. Dr. Dweck posited that our mindset can play a major role in whether or not we succeed at anything, be it work, school, art, or sports. She has published several research papers and a book titled “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” based on her findings.

People with growth mindsets see abilities, talents, and intelligence as something one can learn and improve through their own hard work, Goredema explains. On the contrary, she says someone with a fixed mindset sees those same traits as set in stone and unchangeable.

Your mindset truly is your secret weapon when it comes to achieving your goals.

Our mindset can affect how we view challenges and obstacles. People with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities for growth and discovery; whereas those with a fixed mindset see them as impossible obstacles and tend to confine themselves to the boundaries of their comfort zones, Peña adds.

A challenging situation can feel insurmountable to someone with a fixed mindset, because they don’t see room for improvement. They believe that if they don’t already have the skills to do it, they’ll probably fail. As a result, they may not even try.

What Are 5 Characteristics of a Growth Mindset?

These are five characteristics of a growth mindset:

• Embracing learning: People with a growth mindset make learning a way of life. They keep an open mind and are willing to learn anything they don’t know. In Dr. Dweck’s words, they worry less about looking smart and put more energy into learning.
• Working hard: They recognize that achievement requires effort, and they’re willing to work hard in order to reach their goals. They’re not afraid of the grind.
• Welcoming challenges: Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, people with a growth mindset see them as opportunities to learn new things and level up their skills.
• Taking feedback constructively: Instead of taking feedback personally, they take it constructively and work on it.
• Failing forward: People with a growth mindset learn from their mistakes and use their learnings to improve their next attempt, instead of getting disheartened and giving up. They figure out what went wrong and commit to doing things differently next time instead of assuming they’re not capable based on one mistake, says Goredama.

Examples of a Growth Mindset

These are some examples of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset.

Learning a New Skill

Fixed mindset: "I can't learn to play an instrument. I'm just not musical."

Growth mindset: "If I practice regularly, I can probably learn how to play this instrument."

Facing a Professional Challenge

Fixed mindset: "I've never given a presentation before. I'll probably mess this up."

Growth mindset: "This is my first presentation. I’m actually quite excited at the opportunity! I’m going to prepare thoroughly.”

Dealing With Feedback at Work

Fixed mindset: "My boss wasn’t happy with my report. She doesn’t know what she’s talking about."

Growth mindset: "My manager gave me some helpful feedback. I’ll definitely work on it."

Approaching an Interview

Fixed mindset: “I don’t think I’m qualified for this job. I should decline the interview.”

Growth mindset: “This is my dream job. I can definitely learn the skills I need to be good at it.”

Navigating a Relationship Conflict

Fixed mindset: "We always have the same issues . This relationship is doomed."

Growth mindset: "Let’s discuss things, I’m sure we can work them out."

Working Toward a Physical Fitness Goal

Fixed mindset: "I tried doing a push-up but I couldn’t. I don’t think I’m cut out for this."

Growth mindset: "Getting fit is a journey. If I work toward it every day, I’ll be able to do a push-up someday."

Tackling a Challenging Task

Fixed mindset: “I can’t do this!”

Growth mindset: “Challenge accepted!”

Thomas Edison embodied the growth mindset. Although it took him over 10,000 tries, he persisted in his efforts to invent the first lightbulb. When someone asked him about the 10,000 failed attempts, he famously said “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.”

Benefits of a Growth Mindset

These are some of the benefits of a growth mindset:

• Promotes resilience: A growth mindset pushes us to keep going, even when we’ve faced a setback. On the other hand, a fixed mindset has us giving up and feeling helpless when we can’t do something.
• Makes us more adaptable: A growth mindset makes us more flexible and adaptable, in our professional and personal lives. 
• Increases our chances of success: Research shows us that having a growth mindset is linked to greater motivation and increased willingness to attempt new challenges, which is ultimately linked to better performance.
• Reduces stress and anxiety: A growth mindset helps us deal with disappointment, anxiety, and frustration in healthier ways. It also helps us cope better with stress.
• Keeps us humble: A growth mindset keeps us humble because it reminds us that there’s always more to learn. Remember that we’re just at the beginning, there’s so much room to grow, learn and experience new things, says Goredama.
• Helps us look beyond stereotypes: People with fixed mindsets tend to look for information that matches their idea of a stereotype; whereas people with growth mindsets are open to new information that contradicts stereotypes.

We are all human and it's almost impossible to avoid setbacks when you’re pursuing something that really matters. A growth mindset helps you get through the tougher times and encourages you to continue to bet on yourself, no matter what.

What Are Some Ways You Can Develop a Growth Mindset?

It’s never too late to change your mindset. Pena explains that shifting from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset is possible because our brains possess the capacity to evolve and expand, a trait known as neuroplasticity .

These are some strategies that can help you develop a growth mindset:

• Cultivate curiosity: Develop a genuine interest in learning new things. Ask questions, explore new subjects, and meet different types of people.
• Face challenges head-on: Instead of shying away from challenges, face them head-on. Ask yourself what’s the worst thing that could happen if it doesn’t work out. It’s often not as bad as you think.
• Avoid negative self-talk: Pay attention to your inner dialogue. If your inner voice tends to discourage you, make a conscious effort to replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations that encourage you.
• Reframe “failure” as “learning:” We tend to avoid challenges because we’re scared of failing. Replace the word “failing” in your dictionary with the word “learning.” Reflect on past mistakes, and instead of beating yourself up for them, try to focus on what you learned from them.
• Seek feedback: Continuously seek feedback from those around you. For example, you can ask your manager or colleagues for feedback every few months to try to identify areas where you can improve. Check in with your loved ones once in a while and ask them what you can do to make them feel more loved, connected, and supported.
• Surround yourself with positive people: Goredama recommends surrounding yourself with positive people with a growth mindset. “Think of who you know in your circle who has a positive outlook and has a track record of pursuing their own goals. Just being in the same orbit as someone who is invested in their own momentum can have a positive ripple effect.”
• Curate your information exposure: Pay attention to the information you’re consuming, says Goredama. Instead of scrolling through social media , she recommends investing time in listening to uplifting podcasts or reading something educational.

These are some steps that can help you navigate challenges with a growth mindset:

• Shift your perspective: If there’s an obstacle in your way, think of it as a path to improvement rather than seeing it as a roadblock. 
• Focus on solutions: Instead of focusing on the problem and panicking, start thinking of solutions. “When you move into problem-solving mode , you start to act, and that immediately starts to build new momentum of its own,” says Goredama.
• Create an action plan: Work out an action plan to overcome the problem. Break down the challenge into smaller, manageable steps, and set actionable goals to work through the difficulties gradually.
• Visualize success: Picture yourself successfully overcoming the obstacle. Research shows that visualizing it can help boost your confidence and motivation.
• Stay persistent: Be patient with the process. Remember that change and growth take time. Keep at it!
• Adjust and adapt: Be willing to adjust your strategy based on the lessons you learn along the way.
• Celebrate small wins: Celebrate small victories along the way. Growth is a continuous process, and it’s important to celebrate our wins along the way.
• Reflect and learn: Reflect on your experiences, successes, and setbacks. Understand what worked and what didn’t.
• Don’t beat yourself up over mistakes: Even if things don’t work out, don’t beat yourself up over mistakes. Focus on learning from them and adapting accordingly.

Parting Words

A growth mindset can be a powerful tool. Luckily, research shows us that it’s never too late to change our mindset, and we can learn to develop a growth mindset if we want to. It’s all about keeping an open mind and looking at challenges as opportunities instead of obstacles.

So, the next time something difficult comes your way, step up and say, “Challenge accepted!” You’ve got this!

Harvard Business School. Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset: what's the difference?

Harvard Business Review. What having a “growth mindset” actually means .

New Jersey. Thomas Edison .

Tao W, Zhao D, Yue H, Horton I, Tian X, Xu Z, Sun HJ. The influence of growth mindset on the mental health and life events of college students . Front Psychol . 2022 Apr 14;13:821206. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.821206

Schroder HS. Mindsets in the clinic: Applying mindset theory to clinical psychology . Clin Psychol Rev . 2021 Feb;83:101957. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2020.101957

Ng B. The neuroscience of growth mindset and intrinsic motivation . Brain Sci . 2018 Jan 26;8(2):20. doi:10.3390/brainsci8020020

Dweck CS, Yeager DS. Mindsets: A view from two eras . Perspect Psychol Sci . 2019 May;14(3):481-496. doi:10.1177/1745691618804166

Yeager DS, Dweck CS. What can be learned from growth mindset controversies? Am Psychol . 2020 Dec;75(9):1269-1284. doi:10.1037/amp0000794

Blankert T, Hamstra MR. Imagining success: multiple achievement goals and the effectiveness of imagery . Basic Appl Soc Psych . 2017 Jan 2;39(1):60-67. doi: 10.1080/01973533.2016.1255947

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Solving Tough Problems Requires a Mindset Shift

• Marianne W. Lewis
• Wendy K. Smith

Instead of either/or thinking, try both/and.

Leaders face a daily barrage of competing demands and multiple stakeholders with different opinions and incentives. To navigate the chaos, most people’s brains default to “either-or” thinking when “both-and” thinking would lead to more creative and novel solutions. Drawing on 20 years of research, the authors provide a three-step process for solving tough problems by adopting a paradox mindset — a comfort and willingness to accept competing demands as a potential source of new ideas and opportunities.

If you are leading an organization — large or small — you may be feeling stuck in ongoing tug-of-wars of competing demands. How do I innovate and change without losing focus of the current product? How do I build a sustainable business but still make profit? How do I attract top talent without overspending my HR budget?

• ML Marianne W. Lewis is dean of the University of Cincinnati’s Lindner School of Business and a professor of management. She formerly served as dean at Cass Business School in London, She is the co-author of Both/And Thinking .
• WS Wendy K. Smith  is the Emma Smith Morris Professor of Management and academic director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative at the University of Delaware’s Lerner College of Business & Economics. She is the co-author of Both/And Thinking .

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5+ Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset Using Grit & Resilience

How about grit?

It has been several years since Angela Duckworth’s TED talk catapulted these two traits into our everyday vernacular and still more since the dawn of Carol Dweck’s fixed versus growth mindset research. What have we learned?

When we demonstrate grit or are described as gritty, it is because we have had the resilience to push ourselves over, through, around, and sometimes under obstacles. How do people learn to do this?

Are people born with grit? According to research from Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, and Kelly (2007), grit is a question of nature and nurture, not one or the other. For people to develop grit, they need to cultivate a growth mindset.

Before you read on, we thought you might like to download our three Resilience Exercises for free . These engaging, science-based exercises will help you to develop grit and effectively deal with difficult circumstances, and give you the tools to improve the resilience of your clients, students, or employees.

This Article Contains:

The growth mindset explained, what are grit and resilience, 5 real-life examples of grit, why are grit and resilience important to the growth mindset, 10 ways to develop grit and resilience, grit team-building activities, developing grit in students, for children, 5 inspiring quotes, 5 popular books on the topic, a take-home message.

Carol Dweck is widely known for her work in this field. Through her research, she identified two mindsets: fixed and growth. A fixed mindset is “believing your qualities are carved in stone,” while a growth mindset is “the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts” (Dweck, 2006, pp. 6–7).

The experience of these mindsets is on a continuum. It is not possible to always operate from one or the other. For example, you might have a fixed or growth perspective about your math ability. Maybe you think that you are horrible with numbers because they do not come naturally to you. In your mind, you either “get” math or you don’t.

On the other hand, you could have a growth mindset if you believe you have the ability to learn math because it is a skill that a person develops. Your perspective is that you do not understand it, yet.

An individual also could have a fixed mindset in one area of their life and a growth mindset in another. Maybe you believe you are not athletically inclined, so you avoid sports or other physically demanding activities. You believe people are born with athletic prowess and that they have a natural talent that you do not possess.

In another area of your life, you feel confident in your public-speaking ability, so you seek out opportunities to do that more often. You also believe it is a skill that develops with practice. Each time you do it and receive feedback, you learn how to get better. This motivates you to continue.

It is easy to understand how a fixed mindset could hold a person back. In our math ability example, that person might avoid seeking jobs that involve math. The bottom line is that some people operate from the perspective that intelligence is a finite thing. Others believe it is mutable.

In an article for the Harvard Business Review, Dweck (2016) points out three areas of confusion some experience regarding her research. First, people mix up open-mindedness and positivity with having a growth mindset, believing that they have always had a growth mindset and, therefore, always will.

Second, some people believe that praising and rewarding effort is all that matters. Her research demonstrated that acknowledging the process is critical, as is the learning and progress that led to the process.

Finally, sometimes people think that if they talk about a growth mindset, or put up posters about it, that is all that is needed. Without doing any work to create a growth mindset culture or environment, those posters are just paper on a wall.

Having a growth mindset involves understanding that taking appropriate risks sometimes leads to failure. The difference, though, is in how a person with a growth mindset defines and rebounds from that failure. People who consistently develop and maintain a growth mindset share the following characteristics (Dweck, 2006, p. 245):

• They embrace challenges.
• They persist in the face of setbacks.
• They see effort as the path to mastery.
• They learn from criticism.
• They find lessons and inspiration in the success of others.

It is not enough to shift our mindset. We also need a healthy dose of grit and resilience to achieve short- and long-term goals.

In 2006, an aspiring PhD candidate was fascinated with the idea that some people seem to be grittier than others. Her exploration started after deciding to become a 7th-grade math teacher several years earlier. She noticed that some students appeared to have the ability to tackle long-term challenges better than others, regardless of IQ scores.

You probably have heard of Angela Lee Duckworth and her work around grit and resilience. In case you have not or need a reminder, here is her 2013 TED talk, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance .

Duckworth et al. (2007) define grit this way:

“Grit is the tendency to sustain interest in and effort toward very long-term goals.”

People are born with various levels of grit, but Duckworth contends that it is a trait that develops through experience. One key to improving it, as she points out in her TED talk, is by shifting your mindset from a fixed to a growth orientation.

Because grit is about intense passion for a particular goal, people can demonstrate it in one area, but not others. Those other areas might require self-control, but not grit. Duckworth (n.d.) provides the example of completing your taxes by April 15th.

It is difficult to commit fully to multiple long-term goals simultaneously and expect that we will achieve success. For example, having the passion for becoming an ultra-marathoner while also pursuing your dream of becoming a world-class anything else would prove more than challenging. The demands of one will likely supersede the other, or your skills will not develop in either area as well as necessary.

Grit is about sustained, consistent effort toward a goal even when we struggle, falter, or temporarily fail.

Resilience is our ability to bounce back after we have struggled, faltered, or failed. It is being able to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, take a moment or two to collect ourselves, and then get back to the business of pursuing our goal. It involves optimism.

Some people are more resilient than others. Like grit, it is a characteristic a person can develop. The American Psychological Association (2012) created a useful resource titled The Road to Resilience . In it, the contributors define resilience as “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress — such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems or workplace and financial stressors.”

Grit is the engine that moves us toward our goal. Resilience is the oil that keeps the engine moving.

Regardless of whether this is because we cringe at drawing attention to our triumphs or because it is simply unacceptable in our culture, the examples are all around us.

Here are a few:

• You are in your first year on a wrestling team, and you are learning about the sport. Every time you attend a tournament, you lose your matches. Rather than quit, you return to every practice, drill, and go to the next tournament.
• You are learning a difficult piece of music. It has complicated finger movements, and you are considered an “average” musician by your instructors. Many of your peers perform with more grace and confidence than you. Instead of giving up, you practice daily. You are deliberate in your efforts. Over several weeks, your finger movements become increasingly more fluid as you practice.
• You have always had an interest in learning a martial art, but you are over 40, and your body is not flexible. Other students are faster, stronger, and more flexible than you. You never miss training sessions, practice the techniques, and learn to adapt them to your body while also increasing your stamina, speed, and accuracy. After several months, you earn your first rank toward a black belt.
• You have never been a good artist. Your idea of drawing a person is a stick figure. Determined to learn how to draw a life-like person, you take classes at a local art school. After a few months of consistent drawing, you can create a self-portrait.
• You have always wanted to learn another language, but believe you are too old, and it will take too long to become fluent. You see a language course promoting fluency in three months, and it is geared toward people who are not natural language learners. You think this might work, so you join the program. You become involved with the active online group, complete the lessons, and post them for others to review. The end-of-course challenge is to have a 15-minute conversation in your target language. On the final day of your three-month study, you post your video.

Where have you demonstrated grit in your life? Feel free to share an example in the comment section.

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Developing grit and resilience helps a person to build and sustain a growth mindset. Duckworth (2013) might disagree, based on her 2013 TED talk. She stated that she believes a growth mindset helps build grit.

What if it is a combination of both? If people are born with some level of grit, it is possible that grit contributes to their mindset. Think about a child who is beginning to walk. Some do this without much encouragement at all. They pull themselves up, take a few steps, fall, get back up, and the process repeats until their parents cannot catch them.

Other children, after several falls, need much more encouragement to get up and try again. Is it possible that this is an early sign of grit and resilience? If people are born with a tendency toward a growth or fixed mindset, does the natural grit some people have contribute to their tendency?

People with a fixed mindset may not demonstrate grit. After all, if you believe that intelligence or other abilities are innate, what is the point in trying to improve? Duckworth’s research is ongoing, and the question of why grit and resilience are important to having a growth mindset continues.

Building resilience and grit varies from person to person and is influenced by our culture. Still, the American Psychological Association offers 10 ways to build resilience that just about anyone can do.

• If you are not a social person, becoming more social (i.e., purposely connecting with others) can help.
• Get control over how you respond to the adverse events you experience.
• The Greek philosopher Heraclitus gets credit for saying, “The only constant in life is change.” Get used to it. Sometimes a goal needs to be abandoned because it is no longer attainable. The inability to accept things that we cannot change is a futile pursuit.
• Apply the Kaizen principle to your goals. Start with the absolute smallest component that relates to the larger, long-term goal. As Walt Disney famously said, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”
• Commit to making decisions when you find yourself in a tough situation. There is no room for wishy-washy actions.
• We can learn a lot about ourselves when we struggle through a bad experience. How have our relationships grown? How have we gained strength or perspective?
• Forget negative self-talk. Trust that you know yourself better than anyone else, and you have the intelligence and power to make forthright decisions. You can solve problems as they arise.
• Bad things will happen. Try to think about them from a lifelong perspective. Draw a line on a paper representing the day you were born to the age you believe you will die. Mark off significant life events, positive and negative along that line. Place a line on that paper that represents your current age. Put a dot on that line to mark the current adversity. In the grand scheme of your life, how significant is that dot? When you look back at past events, how much or how little do they affect your life now?
• Practice optimism. This is not a denial of the bad. It is an acknowledgment of the good and what is possible in your life.
• Practice self-compassion, get some exercise, learn something new, and spend time laughing.

Not surprisingly, doing several of those 10 things can also help you develop grit.

Duckworth created the Grit Scale to measure people’s grittiness. It is a 10-question, Likert-type survey. You rate your level of agreement with each statement. Your grit score ranges from 0.0 to 5.0. The higher the score, the grittier you are as compared to the results of other American adults who participated in the most recent study (though this is not specifically identified.) Results are immediately provided.

For the therapists and educators, another excellent way to develop grit and resilience in your clients is by teaching them resilience. Our Realizing Resilience Masterclass will provide you with a full set of tools to do this.

This masterclass is highly recommended and science based. All claims are backed by science and research. You will be provided with workbooks, exercises, PowerPoint presentations, and a certificate upon completion.

• Conduct a project post mortem or after-action check-in when projects are completed. This allows the team to identify where operations worked or failed. This is a positive, lessons-learned activity with concrete plans to resolve issues that could negatively affect future projects.
• Do hard tasks together; for example, consider a ropes course or other challenge that requires contribution from every team member.
• Clarify the overall goals and mission, including time for questions, so that team members have a thorough understanding of the ‘why’ of the organization.
• Train and keep the team together throughout a project to develop team cohesiveness and support.

Several of the ways to build grit in individuals, whether they are children, teens, or adults, are useful when working with a team.

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“The best positive psychology resource out there!” — Emiliya Zhivotovskaya , Flourishing Center CEO

Dweck’s book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Succes s, spawned the creation of several growth mindset interventions. One of the most well-established programs is from MindsetWorks. Their focus is on working with teachers, students, and parents to develop growth mindsets in kids . Their signature program is Brainology for students in grades 4–9.

The Brainology curriculum teaches students how their brain works and how effort and learning affect their success. Dweck’s (2006) research identified that when students understand this information, they are more motivated and perform better academically.

Another important aspect of developing grit in students is understanding that according to Duckworth’s research, grit increases as we age. That 12-year-old who needs to get “grittier” likely will because of changing circumstances throughout life. She encourages people to engage in deliberate practice and to create a culture of grit. To do this, emphasize the following:

• Mistakes happen, but they are temporary opportunities from which we can learn and grow.
• Problem solving can be facilitated by breaking the problem down into smaller, more manageable parts and understanding where students may have control over the problem.
• Timely, detailed feedback is important and useful.
• Questions encourage self-reflection.
• Create goals that are just outside of reach.
• Repeatedly practice the skill the student wants to improve.

If you ask an adult what makes them gritty, they will probably say, “life.” What they mean by this is that the experiences we encounter break us down and build us up. It is through failure that we learn our greatest lessons, and those lessons often are about what it takes for us to achieve our goals.

The Big Life Journal company creates resources that help children ages four and up to develop a growth mindset. Their work and these resilience-building activities are based on research done by Carol Dweck and Angela Duckworth. These also are activities that adults can do.

• Find a purpose. When people identify their goals, this contributes to their sense of purpose and motivates them to act.
• Interview people who have experienced tough times and lived to tell the tale. This could be a grandparent, another family member, or a neighbor.
• There are lots of examples of famous people who have overcome obstacles. Watch a movie or read a book or article about them.
• Find examples of grit in nature; for example, corn stalks growing between road grates, or a tree growing from rubble.
• Read books together about perseverance.
• Help your child figure out the hard part of the problem they are experiencing. Breaking it down makes it easier to tackle. It also helps them determine which parts are within their control.
• Try “the hard thing” rule used by Duckworth. Everyone chooses a difficult task. They must finish whatever they start. No one can select the task for someone else.
• Try the “Grit Pie” exercise. The pie is the problem. Each slice is a possible cause. Have the child determine if the cause is permanent or temporary and whether they blame themselves or someone else. Often, the child will identify the problem as temporary. You can help them see how they can gain control by making some changes.
• Model a growth mindset. When your children see you setting goals, overcoming setbacks, and achieving goals, you are reinforcing a growth mindset. You also are showing them what grit and resilience look like.

Check out the Big Life Kids Podcast for engaging stories and lessons, as well as our article on How to Nurture a Growth Mindset in Kids .

There are several quotes about resilience and grit, too many from which to choose, but choose we must. These might resonate with you.

Resilience is accepting your new reality, even if it’s less good than the one you had before.

Elizabeth Edwards

Sleep is a key part of the requirements for resilience and good decision-making.

James G. Stavridis

Being gritty doesn’t mean not showing pain or pretending everything is O.K. In fact, when you look at healthy and successful and giving people, they are extraordinarily meta-cognitive. They’re able to say things like, ‘Dude, I totally lost my temper this morning.’ That ability to reflect on yourself is signature to grit.

Angela Duckworth

Humans are creatures of habit. If you quit when things get tough, it gets that much easier to quit the next time. On the other hand. If you force yourself to push through it, the grit begins to grow in you.

Travis Bradberry

Grit, in a word, is stamina. But it’s not just stamina in your effort. It’s also stamina in your direction, stamina in your interests. If you are working on different things but all of them very hard, you’re not really going to get anywhere. You’ll never become an expert.

What inspiring quotes would you add to this list?

17 Tools To Build Resilience and Coping Skills

Empower others with the skills to manage and learn from inevitable life challenges using these 17 Resilience & Coping Exercises [PDF] , so you can increase their ability to thrive.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

No article about grit, resilience , and a growth mindset is complete without offering a few book suggestions. Many of you are familiar with the first two on this list. The other four each provide a different perspective on this topic.

1. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance – Angela Duckworth

She learned that grit is not based on IQ. It is a quality that can be learned.

Duckworth reveals how to do this by teaching people to have a growth mindset.

Available on Amazon .

2. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – Carol S. Dweck

3. Beyond Grit: Ten Powerful Practices to Gain the High-Performance Edge – Cindra Kamphoff

Kamphoff offers practical tools to master your mindset through ongoing attention.

4. Emotional GRIT: 8 Steps to Master Your Emotions, Transform Your Thoughts & Change Your World – Neeta Bhushan

She begins by exploring the stories that hold a person back.

She helps the reader analyze these stories, break them down, and then reframe them to become emotionally gritty.

Available on  Amazon .

5. The Stress Effect: Why Smart Leaders Make Dumb Decisions and What to Do About It – Henry L. Thompson

Grit, resilience, and a growth mindset are intertwined. Some believe these traits are innate, but others, like Dweck and Duckworth, believe they can be developed. Developing them takes time, patience, and attention.

There are many resources available, including books, programs, positive psychology podcasts , and movies that can help a person better understand these traits. Duckworth’s Grit Scale is a good place to start for those who want to assess their level of grit.

An important aspect of all the research is that grit, resilience, and growth mindsets change over time and are influenced by our thoughts, beliefs, and experiences.

How will you develop more grit and resilience so that you can experience a growth mindset in more areas of your life?

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Resilience Exercises for free .

• American Psychological Association. (2012). The road to resilience . Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/helpcenter/road-resilience
• Bhushan, N. (2016).  Emotional GRIT: 8 Steps to master your emotions, transform your thoughts & change your world.  Emotional Grit.
• Duckworth, A. L. (n.d.) Q&A. Retrieved January 8, 2020, from https://angeladuckworth.com/qa/
• Duckworth, A. L. (2013, May 9). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance . YouTube. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/H14bBuluwB8
• Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M. D., & Kelly, D. R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , 92 (6), 1087–1101.
• Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success . Ballantine Books.
• Dweck, C. (2016, January 13). What having a “growth mindset” actually means . Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2016/01/what-having-a-growth-mindset-actually-means
• Kamphoff, C. (2017).  Beyond grit: Ten powerful practices to gain the high-performance edge.  Wise Ink Creative.
• Thompson, H. L. (2010).  The stress effect: Why smart leaders make dumb decisions – And what to do about it.  Jossey-Bass.

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Mindset Mastery: Keys to Effective Problem-Solving

The art of problem-solving is not merely an intellectual exercise but a holistic approach that encompasses one's mindset, emotions, and behaviors. Mindset Mastery in problem-solving is the cornerstone of personal and professional success. It is the catalyst that transforms challenging situations into opportunities for growth and innovation.

This article delves into the intricate relationship between a person’s mindset and their ability to solve problems effectively. We define the problem-solving mindset as a complex fusion of resilience, open-mindedness, and the tenacious pursuit of solutions amidst adversity. At its core, a problem-solving mindset is the unwavering belief that one can navigate through problems by developing skills and strategies conducive to mastering challenges.

The Psychology of Problem-Solving

Understanding Cognitive Approaches: Cognitive approaches in problem-solving are quintessential in determining the efficacy of the solutions derived. These frameworks create a structure within which problems can be dissected and examined from various angles. Analytical thinking, which involves systematic and logical reasoning, forms the bedrock of this cognitive methodology. However, it is the amalgamation of analytical and creative thinking that truly propels problem-solving to its peak. Creative thought processes encourage the exploration of non-conventional solutions, allowing for a comprehensive and often novel resolution.

Emotional Intelligence in Problem-Solving: Within the labyrinth of problem-solving lies the critical element of emotional intelligence – the capability to identify, assess, and manage emotions. Processing emotional responses can have a profound impact on decision-making. It allows for a level-headed approach that is less prone to biases and distortions, leading to effective problem-solving . Emotional intelligence also enables individuals to communicate better and collaborate effectively, especially in group problem-solving contexts.

Developing Problem Solving Skills: Lessons from Saint Augustine

Developing Problem Solving Skills Since 1960s WSEIAC Report

Breaking Down Complex Problems: Developing Problem Solving Skills

Keys to Problem-Solving Mastery

Cultivating a Growth Mindset: The dichotomy of growth versus fixed mindsets has significant implications for problem-solving. Individuals with growth mindsets view challenges as stepping stones to mastery; they believe abilities can be honed with effort and perseverance. This mentality facilitates an adaptive and agile approach to problem-solving, as it fosters resilience and a willingness to engage in continuous learning.

Embracing Challenges as Opportunities: To dominate the realm of problem-solving, one must reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. This shift in perspective minimizes the fear of failure and inspires individuals to experiment with novel strategies. Such a paradigm encourages learning from failures and setbacks, which is an essential component for achieving mastery in problem-solving .

Developing Effective Problem-Solving Skills

Enhancing Critical Thinking: Critical analysis is an indispensable element of problem-solving. To strengthen this faculty, individuals must engage in targeted strategies that challenge their reasoning abilities. This may include problem-solving courses free of charge available online or systematic practice through intellectual pursuits. Sharpening critical thinking abilities complements other problem-solving skills by laying a strong foundation of logical analysis.

Creative Solution Generation: Innovation and creativity are jewels in the crown of problem-solving. They drive the generation of unique solutions that can outpace traditional methods. Encouraging out-of-the-box thinking requires cultivating an environment where brainstorming and experimentation are embraced. Techniques that push the boundaries of conventional paradigms contribute to the growth of creative proficiency.

Applying the Problem-Solving Mindset in Real-Life Scenarios

Case Studies: Analyzing real-life case studies can substantially augment one's understanding of practical problem-solving. These provide rich narratives showcasing the application of various problem-solving principals in tangible situations. By observing the mindset of individuals who have navigated complex issues successfully, one can glean insights into effective mindset strategies.

Interactive Scenarios: The true testament of having acquired a problem-solving mindset is the ability to apply it to real-world problems. Interactive scenarios, which may be found in comprehensive online courses like an online MBA course , provide a fertile ground for practicing the theories and techniques discussed in this manuscript. Engaging with these scenarios hones one's problem-solving skills, ensuring they become second nature.

Mastery in Problem-Solving: Continuous Improvement

Reflective Practices: Reflection is a catalyst for growth in problem-solving. By embedding reflective practices into one's daily routine, individuals can continuously refine their problem-solving methods. Tools such as journals, mind-maps, or reflection sessions can assist in evaluating the process and outcomes of problem-solving activities.

Lifelong Learning and Adaptability: In an ever-evolving world, adaptability is crucial. The commitment to lifelong learning ensures that one's problem-solving skills do not plateau but instead continue to advance. It is through this persistent endeavor that individuals maintain their edge in problem-solving, adapting to new challenges effectively.

Recognizing the indispensable role of mindset in effective problem-solving is the essence of true mastery. This article has traversed through various dimensions of mindset and its pivotal impact on solving problems. The journey towards enhancing problem-solving skills is both challenging and rewarding, and it is incumbent upon readers to dedicate themselves to this pursuit.

What are the most effective strategies for mastering a problem-solving mindset?

Problem-solving mindset: strategies for mastery, understanding the mindset.

To solve problems effectively, one requires a particular mindset. This mindset embraces challenges, tolerates ambiguity, and persists despite setbacks. It involves creativity and critical thinking. Cultivating this mindset is crucial for success in various aspects of life.

Strategy 1: Embrace Challenges

First, one must seek out challenges. Comfort often impedes growth. By stepping out of one’s comfort zone, one strengthens problem-solving muscles. This involves accepting complex tasks. It demands willingness to fail and learn.

Strategy 2: Develop Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is paramount. This involves questioning assumptions. It includes evaluating evidence and reasoning. One must practice breaking down arguments. Looking at situations from multiple viewpoints is essential. This broadens one's thinking horizon.

Strategy 3: Enhance Creativity

Creativity is a key problem-solving skill. Practicing brainstorming helps. So does keeping an idea journal. One can draw inspiration from diverse fields. It pays to challenge conventional wisdom. This unlocks innovative solutions.

Strategy 4: Learn from Others

Learning from peers and mentors is invaluable. Collaboration often leads to better solutions. It unites diverse skills and perspectives. One should engage in constructive debates. These exchanges sharpen one’s mind.

Strategy 5: Reflect and Adapt

Reflection is a powerful tool. After each problem, one should reflect. This involves analyzing what worked and what did not. It is important to adapt future strategies accordingly. Mastery requires continuous refinement.

Strategy 6: Develop Persistence

Persistence is crucial in developing problem-solving skills. Obstacles are inevitable. Persisting teaches resilience. One must remain focused on the end goal. This fosters a strong problem-solving mindset.

Strategy 7: Set Incremental Goals

Setting incremental goals helps. This means breaking big problems into smaller parts. It makes complex problems more manageable. Achieving these smaller milestones builds confidence. It reinforces a positive approach to challenges.

Strategy 8: Practice Regularly

Like any skill, problem-solving improves with practice. Regular exercises and challenges hone one’s abilities. There are various puzzles and logical problems available for practice. Commitment to daily practice is vital.

Mastering the problem-solving mindset comprises various strategies. It involves embracing challenges and failing forward. One sharpens critical thinking and creativity. Learning from others and collaboration enrich one's approach. Reflecting, adapting, and persisting are key. Setting incremental goals and practicing regularly are also essential. With these strategies, individuals can develop robust problem-solving capabilities.

How does mindset influence the problem-solving process?

Mindset and problem-solving, definitions matter.

Mindset shapes perception. It influences behavior. Carol Dweck explains this well. She distinguishes between fixed and growth mindsets. The former sees abilities as static. The latter views skills as malleable.

Impact on Approach

A fixed mindset limits. It avoids challenges. It fears failure. A growth mindset embraces difficulties. It perseveres through setbacks. It learns from criticism. Thus, mindset sets the stage for problem-solving.

Handling Challenges

With a fixed mindset, individuals shun complex problems. They prefer the familiar. This hinders creative solutions. In contrast, a growth mindset cultivates resilience. It encourages innovative thinking. It approaches obstacles with optimism.

Strategies and Techniques

Mindset influences strategy choice. A fixed mindset might select safe, known methods. It runs from risks. A growth mindset seeks diverse options. It considers multiple perspectives. It values the learning process.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Problem-solving requires adaptability. Fixed mindsets struggle here. They prefer predictability. Growth mindsets excel in adaptability. They pivot as needed. They reframe problems effectively.

Collaboration and Feedback

Problems often need teamwork. A fixed mindset may resist collaboration. It views aid as weakness. Conversely, a growth mindset values input. It appreciates different viewpoints. It utilizes collective intelligence.

Outcomes and Responses

Reactions to outcomes vary by mindset. A fixed mindset despairs over failure. It cannot separate effort from ability. A growth mindset learns from outcomes. It acknowledges effort. It refines approaches accordingly.

Long-term Effects

A growth mindset leads to continuous improvement. It sees problems as learning chances. It enhances lifelong skills. A fixed mindset stagnates. It avoids growth opportunities. It yields fewer personal advancements.

In sum, mindset deeply influences how we solve problems. It affects approach, adaptability, and outcomes. Cultivating a growth mindset can greatly enhance problem-solving abilities.

Can mindset mastery significantly improve my problem-solving skills?

Can mindset mastery improve problem-solving skills, understanding mindset.

Mindset shapes perception . It steers actions. Experts agree on its importance. Carol Dweck introduced mindset distinctions. She highlights fixed and growth mindsets.

Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

A fixed mindset limits possibilities. Challenges become threats. Effort seems futile. Growth mindset differs greatly. Challenges are opportunities. Effort is the path to mastery.

Mindset mastery fosters enhanced problem-solving skills. Here's how:

Persistence : Growth mindset encourages perseverance.

Resilience : Setbacks become learning experiences.

Adaptability : Flexible thinking arises.

Innovation : Creative solutions are welcomed.

Open-mindedness : Different perspectives get consideration.

Embracing Challenges

View problems as puzzles. This shift matters. It turns anxiety into curiosity.

Process Over Outcome

Focus on learning . Mastery comes from process. Outcomes improve as a result.

Feedback and Growth

Seek constructive criticism . Feedback fuels improvement. It transforms problem-solving ability.

incremental Progress

Celebrate small victories. They add up. They lead to significant improvements.

Collaborative Problem-Solving

Collaborate with others . Different viewpoints enhance solutions. Teamwork broadens thinking.

Yes, mindset mastery can improve problem-solving. It requires dedication. Change does not happen overnight. Practice fosters growth. Cultivate a growth mindset. Watch your problem-solving skills transform.

He is a content producer who specializes in blog content. He has a master's degree in business administration and he lives in the Netherlands.

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10 Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset

Unlocking the power of a growth mindset theory is a transformative journey that can revolutionize how we approach challenges, setbacks, and personal growth.

Embracing the belief that our abilities can be developed through dedication, initial talents, genetic makeup and existing abilities, a growth mindset empowers us to achieve our full potential.

In this guide, we’ll explore ten effective strategies to cultivate a growth mindset. By adopting these practices, we can develop a more resilient, adaptable, and growth-oriented outlook, driving us towards greater success, enhancing our mental health, developing talent and fulfillment in various aspects of life.

Let’s embark on this empowering quest to unlock the extraordinary possibilities that lie within us through ten powerful ways to develop a growth mindset.

What is a Growth Mindset?

The growth mindset definition is: People with growth mindsets believe that skill and intelligence are something that people can develop.

A growth mindset is a belief system that has its roots in the work of psychologist Carol Dweck, who extensively studied the psychology of achievement and success. According to Dweck’s research, individuals with a growth mindset tend to thrive and achieve more because they approach challenges with a different perspective.

Dr Dweck  (professor of psychology at Stanford University) said the following when asked about the growth mindset.

“students understand that their talents and abilities can be developed through effort, good teaching, and persistence.”

People with a growth mindsets embrace challenges with enthusiasm, seeing them as opportunities to stretch their capabilities and gain new knowledge. They are not afraid to step out of their comfort zones and take on tasks that may initially seem daunting.

Their focus is on the process of learning and growing, rather than solely on achieving specific outcomes. This approach enables them to maintain motivation and continue striving for improvement, even when faced with difficulties.

Overall, a growth mindset is a powerful tool that enables individuals to unlock their full potential, embrace learning and challenges, and lead more fulfilling and successful lives. Embracing this belief in our own capacity to grow and improve can set us on a path of continuous development and self-discovery, leading to greater resilience, adaptability, and a positive outlook on life’s journey.

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Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset

A fixed or growth mindset are two contrasting perspectives that individuals can adopt when approaching challenges, setbacks, and personal development. Let’s compare and contrast fixed and growth mindsets:

Beliefs about Abilities

Fixed Mindsets: In a fixed mindset, individuals believe that their abilities and intelligence are static and cannot significantly change. They see their traits and talents as inherent and fixed from birth.

Growth Mindsets: In a growth mindset, individuals believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, effort, and learning. They see their potential as malleable and believe in the power of continuous improvement.

Approach to Challenges

Fixed Mindsets: People with a fixed mindset tend to avoid challenges to protect their self-image. They may fear failure or believe that their abilities are not sufficient to overcome difficulties.

Growth Mindsets: Those with a growth mindset embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. They see challenges as a chance to expand their skills and understanding, and they are willing to take on new tasks even if they might initially struggle.

Response to Setbacks

Fixed Mindsets: When faced with setbacks or failures, individuals with a fixed mindset may become discouraged or give up easily. They may interpret setbacks as evidence of their lack of ability or intelligence.

Growth Mindsets: Those with a growth mindset respond to setbacks with resilience and perseverance. They view failures as part of the learning process and use them as stepping stones for future improvement.

Effort and Persistence

Fixed Mindsets : Individuals with a fixed mindset may devalue effort and believe that if they were truly talented, success should come easily without much effort.

Growth Mindset : Those with a growth mindset value effort and understand that continuous improvement requires dedication, practice, and hard work. They see effort as a path to mastery and success.

Response to Criticism

Fixed Mindsets: People with a fixed mindset may feel threatened by criticism and may become defensive or ignore feedback that challenges their self-image.

Growth Mindset: Those with a growth mindset are open to feedback and constructive criticism. They see feedback as an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine their skills.

Comparison with Others

Fixed Mindset: Individuals with a fixed mindset often compare themselves to others to validate their self-worth. They may feel envious or threatened by others’ success.

Growth Mindset: Those with a growth mindset focus on their own progress and development, seeing others’ success as inspiration and proof of what is achievable with effort and learning.

Success of Others

Fixed Mindset: People with a fixed mindset may feel threatened by the success of others, believing that others’ success diminishes their own value or potential.

Growth Mindset: Those with a growth mindset celebrate the success of others and see it as evidence that achievement and improvement are possible with dedication and perseverance.

In summary, a fixed mindset is characterized by a belief in static abilities, a fear of failure, and a tendency to avoid challenges, while a growth mindset is marked by a belief in the potential for continuous development, a willingness to embrace challenges, and a resilient response to setbacks.

Why is Growth Mindset Important?

Let’s dive deeper into the details of why a growth mindset is important:

Mental Flexibility

Its important to develop growth mindsets as they foster mental flexibility, enabling individuals to adapt their perspectives and approaches when faced with new challenges or information. They are more open to considering different viewpoints and adjusting their beliefs based on evidence and learning.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills

Individuals with a growth mindset are more adept at problem-solving. They approach challenges with a positive attitude and are more likely to think creatively and explore different solutions. This problem-solving skillset is valuable in both personal and professional contexts.

Building Grit and Determination

Embracing a growth mindset contributes to the development of grit and determination. Grit is the ability to persevere and maintain passion and effort over the long term. Individuals with a positive mindset are more likely to develop grit because they view obstacles as opportunities for growth, which fuels their commitment to their goals.

Embracing Constructive Criticism

People with a growth mindset welcome constructive criticism as a chance to learn and grow. They are not defensive when receiving feedback, which strengthens their ability to adapt and improve.

It empowers individuals to embrace challenges, stop seeking approval, learn from failures, and continuously develop their skills and knowledge. Moreover, cultivating a growth mindset positively influences various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional success, mental well-being, and overall life satisfaction.

How to Develop a Growth Mindset in Adults

Developing a growth mindset in adults is a transformative process that involves a series of intentional steps and practices.

Below, we’ll provide a detailed guide to help you cultivate a growth mindset:

Understand the Concept

This is just the starting point to what a growth mindset is and how it differs from a fixed one. A growth mindset means abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. In contrast, a fixed mindset is the belief that abilities are innate and cannot significantly change.

Assess Your Current Mindset

Take time for self-reflection and honestly assess your own mindset. Identify areas where you might be holding fixed beliefs about your abilities or intelligence. Recognize any self-limiting thoughts and negative feedback that may be hindering your personal growth.

Reframe Your Perspective on Challenges

Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Rather than avoiding difficult tasks, approach them with curiosity and a willingness to learn. View challenges as stepping stones toward improvement rather than roadblocks.

Value Effort and Process

Shift your focus from solely seeking success to valuing the effort and dedication you put into your endeavors. Celebrate your commitment to the learning process and recognize that progress is a result of consistent effort.

Learn from Failures

Reframe your perspective on failure. Instead of viewing failure as a sign of incompetence, see it as a valuable learning experience. Analyze your mistakes, identify lessons, and use them as stepping stones for future improvement.

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10 Growth Mindset Strategies for 2023

Here are 10 detailed growth mindset strategies to embrace in 2023:

Embrace Change and Uncertainty

In 2023, the world is likely to continue experiencing rapid changes and uncertainties. Embracing change and uncertainty is crucial for cultivating a growth mindset. Instead of fearing change, view it as an opportunity for learning and growth. Embrace a flexible mindset that adapts to new circumstances and challenges.

Set Bold and Growth-Oriented Goals

Challenge yourself to set ambitious and growth-oriented goals for 2023. Define specific objectives that push you beyond your comfort zone and require continuous learning and improvement. Break these goals down into smaller milestones to track your progress and celebrate achievements along the way.

Learn from Failures and Setbacks

In 2023, commit to learning from failures and setbacks. Instead of dwelling on disappointments, analyze what went wrong, identify lessons learned, and use that knowledge to adjust your approach moving forward. Embrace a growth mindset by viewing setbacks as temporary hurdles that can be overcome with effort and resilience.

Cultivate a Learning Mindset

Prioritize learning in 2023. Be open to acquiring new knowledge and skills through various means, such as online courses, workshops, reading, or attending seminars. Embrace learning as a lifelong pursuit, seeking opportunities to grow intellectually and professionally.

Seek Feedback and Constructive Criticism

In 2023, actively seek feedback from peers, mentors, or colleagues. Embrace constructive criticism as a valuable tool for improvement and consider it as an opportunity to refine your skills and approaches. Be open to different perspectives and use feedback to make necessary adjustments in your growth journey.

Develop Resilience and Grit

Building resilience and grit are essential aspects of a growth mindset. In 2023, commit to developing these traits by persevering in the face of challenges. Cultivate a “never give up” attitude and use setbacks as opportunities to strengthen your determination and resilience.

Celebrate Effort and Progress

In 2023, celebrate your efforts and progress, no matter how small they may seem. Recognize that growth is a process, and each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. Reward yourself for the hard work you put into your personal and professional development.

Engage in Reflective Practice

In 2023, make time for reflective practice. Regularly assess your growth mindset journey and identify areas of improvement. Reflect on your achievements, challenges, and what strategies have been effective in fostering a growth mindset.

Surround Yourself with Growth-Oriented Individuals

Surround yourself with people who have a growth mindset. In 2023, seek out like-minded individuals who inspire and motivate you to accept challenges and continuously improve. Engaging with a growth-oriented community can reinforce your commitment to developing a growth mindset.

Model Growth Mindset Behavior

In 2023, actively model growth mindset behavior for others. Demonstrate your willingness to learn, take on challenges, and accept feedback graciously. By setting an example, you inspire and encourage those around you to embrace a growth mindset as well.

By implementing these growth mindset strategies in 2023, you will foster a mindset that prioritizes learning, embraces challenges, and continuously seeks improvement. Embrace the opportunities that the year brings, and commit to personal and professional growth to unlock your full potential.

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Final Thoughts – 10 Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset

In conclusion, developing a growth mindset is a powerful and transformative journey that can elevate your life in countless ways. By adopting the ten strategies we explored, you can shift your perspective, unlock your potential, and embrace a more resilient, adaptable, and optimistic approach to challenges and opportunities.

Remember, developing a growth mindset is not about instant transformation but rather a journey of self-discovery and growth. Be patient with yourself, celebrate every step of progress, and stay committed to the process.

As you integrate these ten ways into your life, you’ll find yourself approaching challenges with newfound confidence, tackling obstacles with resilience, and seeing opportunities for growth in every experience. Your mindset will become a catalyst for personal and professional development, empowering you to achieve things you once thought were beyond your reach.

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Be a Resilient, Lifelong Learner by Cultivating a Growth Mindset

“We like to think of our champions and idols as superheroes who were born different from us. We don’t like to think of them as relatively ordinary people who made themselves extraordinary,” writes renowned psychologist Carol Dweck in Mindset: The New Psy chology of Success .

Studies indicate that up to 70% of individuals fail to accomplish their goals, often due to closed-mindedness, self-doubt, and self-limiting beliefs (characteristics of a fixed mindset). When you have a growth mindset, you’re more likely to reach your goals because you are dedicated to learning from setbacks and failures. When you cultivate a growth mindset, you believe your intelligence and skills can be improved , pushing you to continue pursuing your goals even after setbacks.

Key Takeaways

What is a growth mindset.

A growth mindset is a concept developed by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck who defines it as “the belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance.” For those with growth mindsets, the focus is less on achievement and more on the development process. 

Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset

“Some people believe their talents and abilities are fixed traits (a fixed mindset). You have a certain amount and that’s it. But other people believe talents and abilities can be developed through hard work, good strategies, and good manager-ing from others.” Carol Dweck

Top Traits of a Growth Mindset

Top traits of a fixed mindset, 6 benefits of being growth-minded.

Adopting a growth mindset, as opposed to a fixed mindset, boosts the odds that someone will be successful because it helps them cope with stress, protects their self-esteem, encourages them to challenge themselves and seek new experiences, and is correlated with better mental health outcomes.

Sara Blakely is a successful business leader with a growth mindset. When Blakely took the leap from selling fax machines to starting her own shapewear company from the ground up, she leaned into the mindset her father taught her. During dinner every night growing up, Blakely’s father asked her to share her failures from the day— normalizing the process of accepting mistakes and learning from them.

How to Develop a Growth Mindset in 8 Steps

1. embrace challenges and new experiences.

“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” Joshua J. Marine, author

From a neurological perspective, taking risks and embracing new things is necessary for growth and neuroplasticity. Dweck and other researchers have discovered that neurological activities—including actual changes in one’s brain—occur in those intrinsically motivated to focus on learning rather than outcomes or validation. Because of this, it’s important to lean into new experiences, including those you enjoy and those that you worry are above your current skill level. 

2. Cultivate a Love of Learning

“Change is the end result of all true learning.” Leo Buscaglia, author and motivational speaker 

When Thomas Corley, an author and speaker, spent five years studying self-made millionaires, he found that the vast majority (86%) spent their free time reading—but mostly for fun. Research indicates that many successful people foster a curiosity-driven mindset and maintain a passion for continuous learning and personal development, including long after they’ve reached professional milestones. This shows that continuous learning promotes confidence, adaptability, problem-solving skills, resilience, and networking opportunities.

3. Ditch Perfectionism and Praise the Process Instead

“Perfectionism is not the same thing as striving to be your best. Perfectionism is the belief that if we live perfect, look perfect, and act perfect, we can minimize or avoid the pain of blame, judgment, and shame.” BRENÉ BROWN , THE GIFTS OF IMPERFECTION

According to recent studies, when we tell children they’re talented or smart without acknowledging their efforts, it contributes to a fixed mindset and may make them less eager to learn and try new things. Instead, we should strive to have children practice embracing mistakes and expanding outside their comfort zones, even if this involves messing up and not doing things “perfectly.”

4. Identify Limiting Beliefs That Hold You Back

“Words matter. And the words that matter most are the ones you say to yourself.” David Taylor-Klaus 

An essential aspect of moving away from a fixed mindset is paying attention to your engrained beliefs, as well as their origins, validity, and their impact on your quality of life. Believing that the past dictates the future or that the skills you’re born with are the only ones you’ll ever have, are among the most common limiting beliefs holding people back. The problem with viewing oneself this way is that it implies improvement is nearly impossible. Identifying your thought patterns and taking steps to rewire them is one of the most significant moves a person can take to improve their sense of self-worth.

5. Practice Saying “Yet”

“If you get a failing grade, you think, I’m nothing, I’m nowhere. But if you get the grade ‘not yet,’ you understand that you’re on a learning curve. It gives you a path into the future.” CAROL DWECK

The next time you think to yourself that you’ve failed at something or lack certain skills, practice adding “not yet” to the ends of those thoughts. This will not only help keep your self-esteem and confidence strong but also keep your mind open. 

Here are examples of thoughts to add “yet” to:

6. Keep Your Eye on the “Big Picture”

“Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live.” Anne Sweeney

Those with a fixed mindset seek immediate results and worry about short-term benefits. This is what Dweck refers to as “the tyranny of now.” On the other hand, being growth minded requires that you focus on the big picture, your primary values, and the overarching vision that you have for your life. This way, when you fail at some of your smaller goals, you can rest assured you’re still on the right track.

7. Recognize Your Weaknesses and Areas for Improvement

“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” Albert Einstein

Identifying your shortcomings is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, humility, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. In the book, Insight , organizational psychologist Tasha Eurich found that only 10–15 percent of people are self-aware when 95% of people think they are.

8. Help Others Grow

“Life is not accumulation, it is about contribution.” Steven Convoy

You Have the Power to Change Your Thoughts 

“The good news is mindsets are highly changeable, and if you are willing to learn the technology of changing your mindset and defeating your distorted thoughts, you can have significantly more happiness.” Dr. Jacob Towery , Psychiatry Professor

Your mindset influences every aspect of your life—and it all depends on your thoughts and beliefs. These will determine how far you go, your opportunities, the people you meet, and, ultimately, the life you lead. To begin sparking changes, start shifting your mindset toward growth, learning, and development.

27 Growth Mindset Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

A growth mindset is a way of thinking that starts from the belief that you can always improve upon yourself through effort over time.

The growth mindset concept was created by psychologist Carol Dweck, who conducted extensive research on the different ways people perceive intelligence and ability.

Dweck’s achievement goal theory work identified two main perspectives:

• Fixed mindset : From her research, she identified that many people have a fixed mindset. These people believe that intelligence and talent are innate and unchangeable. This mindset leads them to avoid challenges and they tend to lack resilience when faced with obstacles.
• Growth mindset: In contrast, Dweck identified people with a growth mindset, who believed they could grow their intelligence and abilities through effort, persistence, iteration (Dweck, 2006).

Below are a series of growth mindset examples that demonstrate the ways people with growth mindsets think.

Growth Mindset Examples

• Embracing challenges: A person with a growth mindset views challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to be avoided. If something hard comes up in their life, they think about what they might benefit from the experience.
• Persistence through setbacks: Those with a growth mindset understand that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process, and use these experiences to reflect, adapt, and ultimately persevere in their pursuits.
• Embracing failure as a learning opportunity: A growth mindset reframes failure as an essential component of the learning process, enabling individuals to extract valuable lessons from setbacks and apply them to future endeavors (Shechtman et al., 2013).
• Effort as a path to mastery: Growth mindsets acknowledge that hard work is necessary, but they also see that it pays off. Only with hard work and sustained effort , can you achieving mastery. A person with a growth mindset knows the importance of continuous hard work and dedication to their goals.
• Learning from critique: Too many of my students see critical feedback as a horrible thing. But the point of critique is to identify your weaknesses so you can work on them. By getting yourself in the mindset that feedback is a valuable tool for improvement, you can begin to use that constructive criticism as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and how you can get better.
• Internal locus of control: Locus of control refers to who you think is in control of your success – you, or your environment? People with an external locus of control blame external factors for their failures. People with an internal locus of control believe they’re always able to influence the outcomes for their own personal development.
• Embracing mentorship : If you’ve got a growth mindset, you’re looking for ways to improve . So, one thing you can do is seek out a mentor who can give you guidance and support along your journey. This could be a teacher, parent, peer, or someone you admire and respect. Ideally, they’ve been down the path you want to head down so they can give you good advice.
• One step at a time: Sometimes, fixed mindsets are rooted in the fact that improvement seems too hard. It’s a gigantic task. But growth mindset people don’t let that bother them. They look down and think about the first step they need to take to conquer the mountain.
• Reframing: You need to be able to reframe any negative situation by looking at things you can learn from it. If you’ve got a growth mindset, you are excellent at reframing something to find the positive such as the learning experience you can get out of it.
• Divergent Thinking : Divergent thinking refers to the ability to think about multiple possible answers or solutions. Often, a person with a fixed mindset fails to be able to see all the possibilities they have in front of them to achieve success (see: functional fixedness ). They need to start using their divergent thinking skills to consider all the possibilities for achieving success in their pursuits!
• Failing fast: The concept of failing fast refers to the idea that you should take action on an idea because that’s the only way you’ll see if it works or not. This mindset is all about overcoming procrastination and being quick to implement with the idea that you can iterate on your imperfections over time.
• The power of “yet”: The growth mindset embraces the concept of “yet” – acknowledging that while a skill or understanding may not be present currently, it can be developed over time through dedication and effort.
• Curiosity-driven exploration: Individuals with a growth mindset exhibit an insatiable curiosity, seeking out new experiences and knowledge to expand their horizons and enrich their understanding of the world.
• Readiness to change your mind: A fixed mindset literally means that your mind is fixed . In other words, you’re not willing to change (and don’t think you can). But people with growth mindsets are excited about the idea of having their minds changed with new evidence or insights because that’s a sign of growth .
• Belief in the potential of others: A growth mindset involves recognizing the capacity for growth in others, fostering supportive and encouraging relationships that promote collective success.
• Journaling: Many people with growth mindsets keep daily journals to help them reflect on their work and seek improvement. By writing and reflecting on your day, you can come up with ideas for how to make a little effort and do a little better the next day.
• Flexibility in problem-solving : A growth mindset enables individuals to approach problems with a flexible mindset, considering multiple perspectives and strategies in order to identify the most effective solution.
• Commitment to lifelong learning: Embodying a growth mindset entails a lifelong commitment to learning and self-improvement , understanding that there is always room for growth and development in both personal and professional spheres.
• Emphasizing process over results: A growth mindset encourages focusing on the learning process and valuing the journey, rather than solely fixating on outcomes, fostering resilience and adaptability (Dweck, 2010).
• The first draft mindset: This is a mindset I teach to my students when writing essays. It’s about getting your first draft done then seeking formative feedback from your teacher and improving on the draft incrementally over the next few weeks. Here, you’re focused on improvement, believing that with feedback and effort, that draft can become an A+ essay in the end.
• Self-regulated learning: Zimmerman (2002) highlights the importance of self-regulated learning, which involves setting personal goals , monitoring progress, and adjusting strategies – skills that are nurtured through a growth mindset.
• High Expectations : High expectations isn’t about expecting yourself to be the best or be perfect. It’s about expecting yourself to do your best and put your best effort into it, no matter the outcome or odds.
• Valuing effort rather than ability: Research by Mueller & Dweck (1998) suggests that praising effort rather than innate ability leads to increased motivation and perseverance, fostering a growth mindset in individuals.
• Developing a sense of purpose: A growth mindset supports the cultivation of a sense of purpose, motivating individuals to align their efforts with personally meaningful objectives (Yeager & Bundick, 2009).
• Cultivating a learning-oriented culture: Organizations that promote a growth mindset create a culture where continuous learning, innovation, and experimentation are encouraged and rewarded, leading to increased adaptability (Keating & Heslin, 2015).
• Openness to interdisciplinary approaches: A growth mindset fosters a willingness to explore interdisciplinary approaches, understanding that complex problems often require the integration of knowledge and skills from multiple fields (Klein, 2008).
• Minimum viable product concept: One of my favorite growth mindset examples is that of the minimum viable product. This happens when entrepreneurs release version 1 of their product before it’s perfect for beta users. They then use feedback from those users to build on and improve their product. Here, we can see they’re not focused on perfection but on improvement through feedback.

Traits of People with Fixed Mindsets

• Self-awareness
• Persistence
• Self-belief
• Reflectiveness
• Seekers of feedback
• Collaborators
• Action takers
• Lifelong learners
• Intrinsically motivated
• Focused on Learning Goals (enjoys process rather than outcome)

Note that ‘intelligent’ isn’t one of the traits!

Table: Growth vs Fixed Mindsets

Criticism of the Growth Mindset Concept

While I find this concept very valuable for personal development, there are clear limitations.

For example, in my own personal life, I have a growth mindset when it comes to academic work and entrepreneurship. I’m a very driven person from this perspective.

But when it comes to exercise and daily workouts, I struggle. I find myself blaming injuries or lack of time.

The obvious observation here is: mindsets are contextual . We may have a fixed mindset in one situation or on one day, and a growth mindset the next.

This also leads me to wonder where my mindsets come from: why do I have a fixed mindset in one situation and a growth mindset elsewhere? Is this innate in me? What would it take to develop a growth mindset when it comes to exercise, and why am I finding it so hard to develop it?

How to Start Developing a Growth Mindset

I’ve just mentioned that I struggle with fixed mindsets in some areas of my life, while I have a strong growth mindset in other areas. So, I’m no expert. But here, I’ll rely on some of the great information I’ve gleaned from books like The Gap and the Gain and Atomic Habits .

1. Look at how far you’ve come

This strategy involves looking back at your past successes to help you realize that you have the ability to grow and improve.

This idea comes from the book The Gap and the Gain . In this book, Dan Sullivan explains that you’ll never be happy if you look forward at how hard it is to reach your goals.

The best thing to do is to look back and how far you’ve already come.

This will give you perspective: you can achieve, get better, and see success. All you need is to put in the work day by day and you’ll continue down your path.

It’s a reminder that the growth mindset concept is correct: improvement is possible.

2. Failure Fridays

People with growth mindsets embrace failure. They’re not scared of it. Sadly, our society sends the wrong message about this – far too often.

As a teacher, I used to do a lesson each Friday called “Failure Fridays”. This lesson involves sitting down and talking with my class about famous people who failed multiple times before they succeeded.

A classic example is JK Rowling who submitted Harry Potter to 14 different potential publishers before her book was accepted.

These lessons teach students that failure isn’t a bad thing. We need to fail to learn lessons so we can succeed later on. We need to get back up and persist in order to succeed in life.

3. Take it One Task at a Time

This strategy involves not focusing on the overwhelming task ahead of you and, instead, focusing on the first small task in front of you.

James Clear in Atomic Habits give an ancedote of going to the gym (just what I need!). Don’t think about how hard the gym will be, or how much it will hurt.

Instead, just focus on getting out of bed. What’s the first thing to do? Pull your foot out from under the blankets. Then sit up, then put pants on. Just break it down to the simplest steps.

Then, before long, you’ll realize you’re at the gym working away.

Chunking your tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks makes it more achievable and feel less like you can’t do it – which is the fixed mindset you want to avoid!

Growth mindsets can get you a long way in life. I believe having a growth mindset it more important than having intelligence or natural talent. It’s what makes people great. Growth mindset examples can include embracing peer feedback , believing you can improve with effort, and persisting through setbacks.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Green Flags in a Relationship
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Signs you're Burnt Out, Not Lazy
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Toxic Things Parents Say to their Children

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Developing a Growth Mindset for Effective Problem-solving

✅ FREE ACCESS: Mindset Mastery: 7 Productivity Keys For High-Performing Leaders

How can a growth mindset transform your approach to problem-solving?

Mindset precedes skillset. So you don’t solve problems with your actions, you solve problems with your frame of reference about the problem that will guide your actions.

Today, we’re going to learn the 3 essential steps to develop the growth mindset you need for effective problem-solving.

But before we get into it, make sure you grant your lifetime access to our free WorkBook: Mindset Mastery: 7 Productivity Keys for High-Performing Leaders.

This is your chance to make the mindset shift you need to bring your goals into reality.

Growth Mindset For Problem-Solving

In our ever-changing world, the ability to approach problems with a growth mindset is becoming more and more important.

So, let’s explore the advantages and practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset that can empower you to tackle challenges head-on.

But what is a growth mindset in the first place?

A growth mindset is a belief that our abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, effort, and continuous learning.

It is a powerful mindset that opens doors to endless possibilities and fuels personal and professional growth.

In her book “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success,” Dr. Carol Dweck emphasizes that:

“In the growth mindset, failure can be a painful experience. But it doesn’t define you. It’s a problem to be faced, dealt with, and learned from”

This mindset fosters a passion for learning, a hunger for feedback, and a drive for continuous improvement.

So, how can we develop a growth mindset specifically for effective problem-solving?

Here are 3 essential steps:

Step #1: Play The Long Term Game

Problems are a great reminder that success is a process, not an event.

An event is instantaneous. It happens in a moment. It’s a short-term game.

A process is incremental. It happens in a multitude of moments. It’s a long-term game.

So, write this down:

Meaningful events are made of a multitude of processes.

The transformation of a problem into a solution is a process.

It might take mistakes, gradual implementation, multiple attempts, time, and adjustments to solve a problem.

That is challenging, painful, and worthy.

Because that process will lead to an event: the solution.

When facing problems, always remember that you are not playing the game of solving that problem.

You are playing the game of producing a reality where that kind of problem doesn’t exist because you elevated yourself and your environment beyond and above that paradigm.

This will change your perception of the problem from an obstacle to a stepping stone.

Step #2: Differentiate Knowledge from Understanding

Knowledge is a powerful tool for solving complex problems, but you don’t know what you don’t do. You only understand it.

To know about something, you need to live that.

Only by doing so, you can bring that from the conceptual to the actual world.

A growth mindset is a learning mechanism.

So, seize every chance to grow and keep tracking your progress.

One simple way of doing this is asking yourself this question every morning:

“What did I learn yesterday that I can use as a tool moving forward?”

Over time, you will train your mind to look for relevant cues during your days to serve as a productive answer to that question.

Needless to say, you also need to read, listen, watch, write, talk, and think about new concepts and ideas to transform your understanding into knowledge through application.

Step #3: Use an Effective Problem-Solving Schema

Solving problems requires a long-term game and learning mindset, as we just discussed, but also, a schema.

In psychology and cognitive science, a schema describes a pattern of thought or behavior that organizes categories of information and the relationships among them.

Think of a schema as a conceptual model or a framework.

So, a problem-solving schema is a framework you can apply to a given problem that will lead to its solution.

This requires a more detailed approach.

In the Mindset Mastery Workbook , you will learn how to solve complex problems using Dr. Alfred North Whitehead problem-solving schema called The 4 Processes of Thinking.

By granting your free lifetime access to this workbook today, you will not only master the art of problem-solving but also, have access to all future updates at no cost.

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6 Most Common Mindset Traps and How To Avoid Them

Mindset Mentor | Michelle McClintock

19 Min Read

The Power of Mindset

Michelle McClintock

“We don’t recognise the power of the right mindset to influence not just our inner world, but our outer world too.”

“Can you see how your thoughts and beliefs about this are making you feel and respond the way you do?”

She nodded slowly, suddenly aware of what was happening.

“It’s not your fault – it’s just that your mindset is working against you and making life impossible.”

“I had no idea.”

“Don’t worry, once you understand how the mind works, and sometimes works against you, you can avoid these common mindset traps.”

This could be an excerpt from any one of hundreds of dialogues I’ve had in my career with coaching and counselling clients, men and women, all of whom were in some way battling with their mindset.

Mindset Traps Are Common

As we go about our daily lives, there are some common mindset traps we all fall into on a regular basis. Getting stuck in these traps can have a big impact on many areas of our life: our confidence, relationships, health, energy, fulfilment and success.

But if we can learn to understand more about these common pitfalls and get some strategies for how to avoid them, we can change our mindset and change the results we are getting in almost every area of life.

So, let’s get into the topic of mindset. Specifically the 6 most common mindset traps and how you can recognise and avoid them… But first an overview. What this article covers:

Trust Me, You Can’t Trust Your Mind

Here’s proof: a visual mindset trap, what is mindset, 6 most common mindset traps, 3 step action plan.

I have come to realise that, as humans, we live with a very faulty assumption –  the assumption that our mind can be trusted . 

And because we feel we can trust our mind, and because life is so busy and complex, we don’t pay enough attention most of the time to what’s really goes on upstairs.

Don’t get me wrong – your mind does it best. It’s just that it’s not able to cope with the enormity of the task in front of it.

It’s like this: if your mind had to consciously process every moment of your life, it would crash like a computer with too many browser windows open. So your mind puts a lot of stuff on automatic pilot. This saves energy and time. 

Psychologist’s call this automatic mind. The upside of automatic mind is that it’s fast, requires little attention from you; and it get’s a lot done in your life. Automatic mind is pretty good at driving you to work in the morning, making a cup of coffee and cleaning your teeth. It’s great at reacting to physical danger, although it’s possible you have recoiled from a venomous snake, only to realise a few seconds later that it was just a garden hose.

The downside of automatic mind is that it makes a lot of false associations between things. After all,  the brain is an association machine . It’s a massive neural network of connections you have made between various experiences in your life.

Unfortunately, reality is complicated, and when we allow automatic mind to manage more complex personal interactions and life events, it will generate many inaccurate conclusions. And, if these conclusions are never tested or challenged, then we will go on happily,  or unhappily  accepting life as we think we find it.

Take a look at the following image (fig. 1).

Source: https://www.giannisarcone.com/Muller_lyer_illusion.html

It’s a simple image of two arrows, and you can clearly see that Segment B is longer than Segment A. We all see this image the same way and we believe it to be true. We trust our minds.

Now take a ruler and measure both of the horizontal lines. You will find they are both exactly the same length. This is known as the Müller-Lyer illusion.

Now try clicking on the following image ( it will open in your browser as an animated GIF ). 

Source: By  Ruotailfoglio  – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

What does your mind see? Lines changing in length. Sometimes the blue lines appear longer, sometimes the black. Problem is, the lines never actually change length – both blue and black lines are always the exactly same length.

Even after you have tested and proven that the lines are the same length, your mind will still see them as different lengths.

These are visual illusions – but the same effect applies to our cognitions, beliefs and social interactions.

Every day, the automatic mind is making thousands of quick assessments, drawing conclusions and creating association between two or more things. Almost certainly, you don’t have the time to intervene directly in each of these micro-decisions, so you don’t consciously challenge them. But simply because the mind has associated these things, they feel true.

And just like with the lines above, if it feels true, you assume it is true. And even when it is consciously challenged, it’s hard to see it differently or shift it. 

This is why we cannot trust our mind! And this is how easily we can fall into a particular thought pattern, belief or opinion – and that’s what I’m calling mindset traps.

Mindset refers to the typical or habitual ways we think about life. Your opinions, attitudes, thought patterns and beliefs are the main components of your mindset. 

Mindset.com  tells us that “ Mind-sets are those collection of beliefs and thoughts that make up the mental attitude, inclination, habit or disposition that predetermines a person’s interpretations and responses to events, circumstances and situations. ”

From this definition, it should be pretty clear that the mindset you adopt in life will contribute greatly to your levels of success, happiness, health, wealth and resilience. And conversely,  a poorly chosen mindset will equally impact your levels of stress, anxiety, fear, failure and illness .

Remembering that the thing about our mindset is, it’s often  not chosen with any level of consciousness . Our mind just does its thing, much like our other internal organs, and we are  mostly  happy to leave it to it’s own devices. That’s until something malfunctions or breaks. Then we start investigating.

Unfortunately, it can be hard to be objective about what’s working and what’s not for the simple fact that we are investigating our own mindset malfunctions with a malfunctioning mindset.

It can be difficult to see the wood for the trees.

And that’s when people often reach out for help. 

Here’s the first thing I usually tell people about mindset:

“Try thinking about mindset as a  marinade  that you choose to soak your brain in ( sounds delicious huh! ) –  the ingredients you choose will flavour your thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and ultimately, your actions  – so choose wisely.”

And whilst you may have inherited a particular mindset from your nearest and dearest, or developed one on the fly, whatever mindset you have now is not something you are stuck with.  You can change your mindset at any stage of life , and you should endeavour to do so if you recognise problems with it.

Now, you may find that you have a positive mindset, until you are put into stressful circumstances, and then you do indeed default to a more negative mindset.

Recent research by Carol Dweck at Stanford University is showing us that one of the most powerful mindsets you can adopt is what’s known as a  Growth Mindset :

“In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. Virtually all great people have had these qualities.”

People who approach life with a Growth Mindset stay open, curious, engaged and believe in their ability to learn and develop so they can perform better in whatever situations they face.

I’m planning to write more about the  Growth Mindset  soon, but first I want to help you identify the 6 most common mindset traps that you may stumble into in your daily life.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the 6 most common mindset traps:

Mindset Trap #1 – You fault find

The mind is an excellent producer of judgements. Unfortunately, the snap judgements we make are not always accurate, and often go untested, leading us into the first of the 6 most common mindset traps: Blame.

Basically, if you get hooked by the judgments that your mind spits forth, and they go unchecked and unchallenged, then it can turn into a blaming mindset quite quickly.

Why do we default to blame?

I think there are 2 main reasons:

1. Firstly, we don’t want to examine our own mistakes, so we look at others – it’s easier!

2. Also, we need to feel in control. And when we don’t feel in control this tends to alert our emergency response system, which sends us into attack mode (that’s the ‘fight’ in the ‘fight or flight response’). In this mode, we can jump into attacking others, or even launch an attack on ourselves. 

Whilst blame is not particularly helpful, the brain has done it’s job and restored in you a sense of safety and control. This keeps you feeling safe in a world that’s largely beyond your control. 

You see, the mind would rather feel in control than see the world accurately.

That’s one of it’s main biases. The need for control is so powerful in humans, it’s hard wired into our brain Hence, we really have to be constantly on the lookout for how this is impacting our mindset.

?  Changing Tack

Examine your thoughts and attitudes for blame and judgement. Here’s some examples:

“It’s all my fault/their fault…” “I/They should’ve known better…” “Why did I/they do that to me…” “Attacking self or others in your head…”

Ask yourself, am I focused on fault finding? If the answer is yes, then actively try to develop a mindset of compassion and empathy. Try to look for the whole truth, and see the situation from all perspectives.

Furthermore, if you really feel  an important mistake has been made  and fault needs to be communicated, make a complaint without making a big deal of it. Keep your intention on giving feedback, looking for solutions and creating positive change. 

✅  Be on the lookout for:

Anger, frustration, judgement

Mindset Trap #2 – You compare yourself to others 

First of all, we all compare constantly because social relationships matter to humans. It’s just human nature – we need to know how we are doing, comparatively speaking. As a result, we have an innate need to estimate our social positioning, and we are hard wired to fear  too much difference  which may lead to exclusion and isolation. 

There are three problems with this that I can see:

1. Our need to avoid difference can lead us to look for it, and because we are looking for it, we convince ourselves of what we have seen.

2. Secondly, the mind cannot possible discern with any real degree of accuracy how we are doing compared to the general population (far too complex).

3. And finally, people tend to compare themselves ‘too negatively’ or too favourably’ –  so our perceptions are inaccurate just like with the visual perception tests above .

Examine your thoughts and perceptions for comparison. You might compare yourself to specific people or with the general population and societal norms.

“I’m worried what people in my team think of me.” “My performance is not at the same level as others.” “I thought by this age I’d be married and have kids.” “Everyone else seems to know what they want. What’s wrong with me?”

Challenge these kinds of thoughts and instead bring your focus back to  who you want to be . Develop a mindset of appreciation and acceptance. Shift your thinking from evaluation to curiousity. Exchange worry for learning. Set intentions to connect with others and ask how they are doing.

Insecure, envious, discontented

Mindset Trap #3 – You get stuck in your own viewpoint

Sometimes we forget to step out of our own viewpoint. We are one-sided in our thinking. 

We get convinced that our reality is the ONLY reality, and we all too often assume that people should know what we are thinking or feeling (because it’s so clear to us)!! 

Our brain tends to oversimplify the world, and we tend to believe we have a clear view of the world. Big mistake, when there are as many realities as there are people on the planet.

Two people can sit through the same conversation or event and have completely different experiences. And just because someone’s experience differs – doesn’t mean your experience is wrong. It’s just different.

Defending your personal viewpoint will tend to lead to conflict and disconnection.

“He should have know how I was feeling.” “I can’t believe she didn’t realise what was happening.” “He obviously didn’t care what I was feeling.” “I know they must be sick of showing me what to do.”

So that’s how we fall into the third of the the 6 most common mindset traps.

Be curious, engage deliberately with new viewpoints – this is sometimes called an inclusive mindset. Welcome differences of opinion whilst knowing that you can choose to maintain your position, or let it go and form a new position if you hear something convincing from the other side. Resist the temptation to go into your usual defence or argument. Stop deluding yourself that you know what others are thinking. Contemplate how others might be perceiving the same situation. Allow for multiple viewpoints always. 

Consider what advice you might give to a friend going through what you are going through – this will help shift you out of your own mindset and into a more friendly and hopefully realistic one.

Argumentative, defensive, self-righteous

Mindset Trap #4 – You overcomplicate things 

Humans need complexity and our mind is fantastic at making the world more interesting and stimulating. It loves to ruminate and puzzle over things, solve problems…and even create problems to solve just for the fun of it!! Certainly, there are positives and negatives to this.

However, the short-term memory struggles to retain complex information. So, if you have a habit of keeping everything in your head, instead of getting it out on paper, you are going to get overwhelmed.

On top of that, some of us have very overactive minds, which often indicates high intelligence and a strong capacity for critical thinking skills. It can also indicate past trauma. Trauma tends to put the brain into overdrive as it is trying to protect you and constantly scanning for threats. This can mean your wheels are always spinning.

If you tend to overcomplicate things then you might notice thoughts such as:

“I feel overwhelmed and confused…” “It’s all too much to get my head around…” “Life is so complicated…” “I struggle making decisions.”

When you understand the limitations of your brain’s capacity to retain complex material, you can support yourself by:Trying to simplify the way you think about thingsCreating effective systems that you set and forgetWrite your ideas down, chunk them into categoriesUse Mindmaps to better grasp the situationUnderstand the whole through investigating the partsTry to make decisions faster and give yourself a deadlineTurn to your intuitive thinking/gut feelingsFocus on what you can control and take more action ( This might be helpful )

An example of this that I have shared with a few people recently, is the  coin toss technique  for making difficult decisions. Instead of labouring a big decision, toss a coin and then observe you reaction to the result. That should help you clarify what you want. Whether it’s heads or tails, most times you will react with relief or disappointment depending on whether the coin reflects your true desire. Try it!

Confusion, overwhelm, exhaustion

Mindset Trap #5 – You resist reality 

Being human means we all have the capacity to think outside the present moment – it’s what makes us conscious, but unfortunately it also means we can actually avoid dealing with the present reality by going elsewhere in our mind.

So many people live their lives obsessing over the past or daydreaming about the future, imagining better days or worst case scenarios. Barely realising it’s all imagination/ Now, imagination is fantastic – when it’s constructive, creative and positive. However, we humans seems to slip into negative imagination too often – and this is what this is number 5 on my list of the 6 most common mindset traps.

Fantasies about a negative future and rumination about the past are both ways to avoid the hard work that is required in the here and now of your life. Consequently, if you are actively resisting your current reality, then you are going to find it impossible to change it for the better! 

How this looks and sounds: 

“But…” “If only…” “It shouldn’t be this way…” “I can’t believe this is happening…” “No, I simply refuse to accept this…”

Accept the situation you find yourself in because you can’t deal with anything until you do that. Once you’ve accepted things just as they are, then you can start to contemplate how you can change things for the better and create a different future.  This article  goes into more depth on accepting the present moment.

Be on the lookout for your mind getting lost in the past or projecting into the future. It’s okay to have goals, but if you spend all day worrying about something that hasn’t happened, then you’ve just wasted a day. Insead try focusing on what you can do right now to prepare or avoid what you are dreading tomorrow.

Defiance, complaining, resentment

Mindset Trap #6 – Your expectations are too high

As with other things on this list, expectations can be a positive or negative. It can be great too raise our standards and expect more from ourselves. But if we use expectations as a ruler with which to measure our worth, we are in trouble.

A common mindset pitfall is being too hard on oneself. This mindset goes hand in had with perfectionism and being habitually tough on yourself.

You may think your high expectations are helping you or others do/be better, but in reality they are probably hurting you and making life more difficult.

This is what high expectations sound like:

“I expect more from you…” “He should know how I feel…” “I should be feeling something more than I am…” “Why is this taking me so long…?” “Surely I should have this figured out by now…what’s wrong with me?”

Relax and let go of the reigns a little. ( There you go, that feels better )

It’s great to have positive belief or clear intentions for the outcome, but keep your expectations realistic. If you find your expectations are stopping you from taking action, then you might be pushing too hard. Find a smaller goal. Breathe and focus on excellence, not perfection.

A great shift in mindset here is to  aim for imperfect action  – that’s where you choose to action even though you know it’s nowhere near perfect. You get things rolling, and you improve as you go.

Self-doubt, avoidance, procrastination

1. Observe and write down your thoughts or reactions, especially in difficult situations

2. Notice what flavour they are (blame, comparison, perfectionism, avoidance, etc)

3. Consciously choose to adopt a new mindset and practice daily until this become automatic

Well, those are the 6 most common mindset traps that I come across in my coaching and counselling work. 

After reading this article, you hopefully have a better understanding of your own default or automatic mindset, including patterns of negative thoughts, opinions, judgments and beliefs. You are now able to recognise the most common types of negative mindsets in yourself and others.

For each mindset trap we discussed practical ways of “changing tack” and shifting to a more constructive approach. And finally, we also summarised each of the 6 mindsets with three key experiences/emotions/reactions to be on the lookout for – just to help you quickly identify when you are getting pulled into one of these traps!

I really hope you have enjoyed this article. And hey, if you or anyone you know could use a mindset reset – then why not take advantage of my free initial consultation by clicking the button below. It’s a 30-50 minute session with me, where we can discuss what’s happening for you, what changes you’d like to create, and then figure out a personalised action plan.

? Over to you…

So, which of the above traps do you fall into? When and why? 

And what changes would you like to make to your mindset and why? 

Please leave a comment below and join this conversation.

P.S. Want more? Try the  Mindset Quiz

References: Mindset.com; “Thinking, Fast and Slow”, Daniel Kahneman; Mindset, Carol Dweck

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

2. build a tower, 3. tic tac toe, 4. scavenger hunt, 6. activity books, 7. board games, 9. human knot, 10. open-ended questions.

Problem solving activities for kids are a great way to teach them how to think critically and creatively, and how to develop a growth mindset . We’re sure you must have also played many educational games as a kid that helped you develop critical thinking or problem-solving- skills you’re using even today. These activities can be tailored to be fun and engaging, and they help kids understand that challenges and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow instead of things to be feared.

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By providing kids with problem-solving activities, we can give them the tools to develop their problem-solving skills and build the confidence to tackle difficult challenges, which will be valuable to them throughout their life. It will also help them understand that their abilities can be developed with practice and hard work, encouraging them to persevere through difficult tasks and not give up easily when faced with obstacles. If you’re looking for some fun and engaging problem solving activities for children to develop a growth mindset, we have curated a list of activities for you.

15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Things you’ll need: A die or dice, some flashcards and a pen

How to do: You can play tons of different games with dice. Playing with two dice encourages kids to quickly add up numbers and learn math in a fun way . One fun game you can play with a single die involves flashcards. For this game, you can assign a category to each number on the die and when the kid rolls the die, they have to name any 3 examples from the category assigned to the number rolled. For example, if number 4 is assigned to animals and it is rolled, they will have to name any 3 animals. 

Things you’ll need: Building blocks, lego, toilet rolls or anything that can be stacked

How to do: If you’re looking for problem solving activities for 5 year olds, this is for you. To play this game, just give the kids anything that can be stacked on top of the other. This can be building blocks, lego, Jenga blocks, toilet rolls, etc. The challenge is to stack one on top of the other and see how high a tower they can build. This game can be played in teams or individually as well. 

Things you’ll need: A tic tac tow board or pen and paper

How to do: This is one of the most exciting problem solving fun activities for students. You can either play this game on a tic tac toe board or on paper. If you’re playing it on paper, draw a table so that you have 9 boxes. Now each player must choose X or O and try to make a continuous row of their chosen symbol. Whoever succeeds wins. 

Things you’ll need: Small toys, stationery items, or anything you want to include in a scavenger hunt

How to do: Assign the teams or individual players specific items they have to find in a defined area. This can be an indoor or outdoor activity for kids . Give them a list of the things they need to find, and you can also give them hints on where to find these things. Whoever or whichever team finds all the things first wins. 

Things you’ll need: A puzzle game

How to do: Get a puzzle set. This can be a regular cardboard puzzle or a wooden puzzle and ask the players or teams to arrange it. You can make this a timed challenge or just let the kids solve the puzzle in their own time and have fun. 

Things you’ll need: Activity books and pencils

How to do: This is one of the best problem solving activities for kids. Activity books are great for children’s problem-solving skills to develop. Buy them activity books containing games like find the element, what’s wrong with the pictures, or hidden picture books. 

Things you’ll need: Board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, and Go Fish

How to do: Give them board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, Go Fish, etc. These board games help kids to develop logic, think deeper, plan ahead and solve problems. 

Things you’ll need: A chalk

How to do: Build a maze with chalk on the sidewalk. Make sure you add a few dead-end ways to make it more challenging for the kids. Once the kid is able to walk through and come out of the maze, take the game to the next level by adding even more dead-end ways and see how they overcome the challenge. 

Things you’ll need: Just a playground or garden

How to do: This is a great group activity for kids that’ll also teach them lots of skills. Ask the kids to form a circle and raise their right arm up. Now ask them to reach out to someone standing opposite to them in the circle and hold their left hand with their left hand. Now ask them to raise their left hands up and repeat the process with their right hands. The objective is to entangle them completely and then ask them to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands. 

Things you’ll need: Pen and paper 

How to do: Once you’re done with an activity, ask kids open-ended questions. These are questions that have no right or wrong answers. Some examples of such questions are- “Did you find this activity easy?”, “What did you enjoy the most about this activity?”, “How would you make this activity more fun?”, etc. 

11. Wool Web

Things you’ll need: Balls of yarn

How to do: This is one of the most exciting group problem solving classroom activities for kids . Divide the players into equal teams and ask them to form a circle. Hand them over one ball of yarn each and ask them to make a web of it amongst the teams. Set a time limit for this step, and once it is done, switch the webs so that none of the teams has their own webs. Now the teams will decide on one player from each team to be blindfolded. This blindfolded player will have to untangle to web assigned to their team with the help of verbal instructions from their teams. The team that untangles the web first wins. 

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

Things you’ll need: Hula hoops

How to do: Divide the kids into teams of 6-8 for this game. Each team will stand in a circle and then be asked to raise their hands up. Now, place a hula hoop on top of their fingertips and ask them to bring it down slowly and make it touch the ground without it falling down or leaving the fingertips. The team to finish the task first wins. 

13. Obstacle Course

Things you’ll need: Pillows, blankets, mattresses, cones, balls, chairs, etc. 

How to do: Build an obstacle course indoors or outdoors with whatever you can find. This makes for one of the most engaging problem solving games for kids. Ask your kids to cross the obstacle course as fast as they can. To make it a bit more challenging, you can also ask them to race against each other to cross the obstacle course. 

14. Memory Games

Things you’ll need: Playing cards

How to do: For this fun cards game, place all the cards face down and take turns to turn 2-4 cards. If you are able to open two similar cards (in number), you get to keep the pair. The player with the highest number of cards with them in the end wins.  

15. Impromptu Plays

Things you’ll need: A stage

How to do: This is one of the best problem-solving exercises for kids to play in groups. If you have a large group, divide the kids into teams of 6-8. If the group is smaller, just make the kids stand individually. Now make a few chits on a theme that has questions that form a difficult situation or a challenge. For example, you can put in chits with questions like “You just found your friend cheating in an exam. What do you tell them?” or “Your younger sibling just broke your favorite toy. How do you react?”. Each team must enact a scene that includes the situation their chit has. If the group isn’t that big, each kid must speak about the same chit but have different perspectives. 

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Developing problem solving skills is extremely important for kids as it helps them to navigate easily around difficulties later on in life. As adults, we’re faced with challenging situations every day, and without our basic problem-solving skills, we wouldn’t be able to survive.

Problem solving skills also help kids to make effective decisions. It helps them resolve problems all at once without reducing them to smaller problems. Once kids develop problem solving skills, it is easier for them to develop other skills as well like critical thinking, cooperation and collaboration with others.

Having problem solving skills helps kids to become more creative and think differently than others and enables them to become independent. These skills also help kids develop decision-making skills and build their confidence along the way as they take the right decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 problem solving skills.

The five problem solving skills are identifying the problem, producing possible results that might work, picking one solution from these, applying the chosen solution and evaluating the results.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Some of the problem solving skills in kids are research, creativity, team-building, communication, active listening, decision-making, and analysis. If you find some of these skills in a kid, chances are they’re great at problem solving.

What is problem solving learning?

According to cornell.edu, Problem solving learning is an approach wherein students are asked open-ended questions about a certain topic, and they must resolve and answer  the same in groups.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

According to a study by Shaffer , kids can start developing basic problem solving skills from the age of three. This further continues to develop as they grow.

What are three problem-solving techniques

According to deakin.edu , the three most basic problem solving techniques are defining the problem, listing out all the possible solutions, and evaluating the options.

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Empowering Growth: Letting Your Team Thrive

With the increasing emphasis on team dynamics and the pursuit of organizational success, empowering growth within a team has become a critical aspect of effective leadership. In this article titled "Empowering Growth: Letting Your Team Thrive," we explore strategies and insights for leaders to foster growth and success among their team members. By building capability, shifting mindsets, and promoting problem-solving skills, leaders can create a culture of empowerment and development. Additionally, the challenges of transitioning to a managerial role, such as balancing responsibilities and recognizing the need to delegate, will be discussed.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Building capability is a primary task for leaders, especially for new managers, who may find it challenging.
• Placing performance pressure on the team is necessary for growth and learning opportunities, rather than solving problems for them.
• New managers should focus on coaching and setting clear expectations, shifting their mindset from being a player to being a coach.
• Asking the right questions promotes problem-solving skills and critical thinking, helping team members develop their decision-making abilities.

Building Capability and Growth

Building capability and fostering growth are critical tasks for leaders, particularly for new managers who face challenges in developing the skills of their team members. Fostering continuous improvement is essential for building capability within a team. This involves creating an environment that encourages learning, innovation, and development. New managers must focus on developing a talent pipeline within their team, identifying individuals with potential and providing them with opportunities to grow and excel. By nurturing and developing the skills of team members, leaders can ensure the long-term success and sustainability of their team. This also contributes to the overall growth of the organization, as a skilled and capable workforce is crucial for achieving organizational objectives. Effective leaders understand the importance of building capability and actively work towards developing their team members to their full potential.

Coaching and Shifting Mindset

Fostering a coaching mindset in new managers involves setting clear expectations for the team and emphasizing the importance of communication and accountability. This approach is essential for fostering a growth mindset and developing coaching skills. To achieve this, new managers should focus on the following:

Setting clear expectations: Clearly defining goals and objectives helps team members understand what is expected of them and align their efforts accordingly.

Communicating accountability: Holding team members accountable for their actions and results promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility, fostering a growth mindset.

Providing necessary tools: Equipping the team with the necessary resources and support enables them to succeed and grow their skills.

Shifting from player to coach: New managers should shift their mindset from being a player to being a coach, focusing on guiding and developing their team members rather than doing the work themselves.

Asking the Right Questions for Problem-Solving

Asking targeted questions can facilitate problem-solving by promoting critical thinking and decision-making skills among team members. When team members are faced with a problem, asking about the core issue can help uncover underlying causes and potential solutions. Encouraging team members to consider alternative approaches expands their problem-solving capabilities and encourages them to think critically about different possibilities. Additionally, identifying what can be sacrificed without compromising the project’s value helps team members prioritize and make informed decisions. By asking the right questions, team members are challenged to think deeply and critically about the problem at hand, enhancing their problem-solving skills. This process also helps them develop their decision-making abilities, as they learn to weigh different options and make informed choices. Overall, asking targeted questions promotes critical thinking and enhances problem-solving skills among team members.

Making Yourself Redundant as a Leader

Developing other leaders within the team is a key factor in creating redundancy and ensuring that the team can function effectively without constant reliance on the leader. This promotes team autonomy and fosters independence among team members. To achieve this, leaders can:

• Identify and nurture potential leaders within the team by providing them with opportunities for growth and development.
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities to team members, allowing them to take ownership and make decisions.
• Encourage collaboration and shared decision-making, empowering team members to contribute their ideas and expertise.
• Provide guidance and support when needed, but also give space for individuals to problem-solve and find solutions on their own.

Challenges of Transitioning to Managerial Role

The challenges of transitioning to a managerial role include the need to balance administrative tasks with productive work and the requirement for a mindset shift from being an individual contributor to a leader. Managers often find themselves faced with the task of juggling their own work responsibilities while also taking on additional administrative duties. This can be challenging as it requires them to manage their time effectively and prioritize their tasks accordingly. Additionally, transitioning from an individual contributor to a manager requires a shift in mindset, where managers must learn to delegate tasks and focus on leading their team. This can be a difficult adjustment for individuals who are used to being solely responsible for their own work. Furthermore, nurturing employee development and overcoming resistance to change are essential aspects of the manager’s role in order to foster a productive and cohesive team environment.

Fostering a Culture of Empowerment

To cultivate a culture of empowerment, leaders must create an environment where individuals are encouraged to take ownership and make decisions autonomously. This can be achieved by nurturing collaboration and fostering creativity within the team. Here are four key strategies to foster a culture of empowerment:

Establish clear goals and expectations: Leaders should set clear goals and expectations for their team members. This provides a sense of direction and purpose, allowing individuals to understand their role in contributing to the overall success of the team.

Encourage open communication and active listening: Leaders should create a safe space for individuals to express their ideas, opinions, and concerns. Active listening promotes a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration among team members.

Provide opportunities for growth and development: Leaders should provide opportunities for individuals to develop their skills and knowledge. This can include training programs, mentoring, and challenging assignments that allow individuals to stretch their capabilities and foster creativity.

Recognize and celebrate achievements: Leaders should recognize and celebrate the achievements of their team members. This not only boosts morale and motivation but also reinforces the idea that individuals have the power to make a difference and contribute to the team’s success.

Nurturing Individual Growth and Development

Nurturing individual growth and development involves creating an environment that supports continuous learning and provides opportunities for skill enhancement. Fostering motivation and cultivating strengths are key aspects of this process. Motivation can be fostered by aligning individual goals with organizational objectives and providing clear feedback and recognition for achievements. Cultivating strengths involves identifying and leveraging individuals’ unique abilities and talents, allowing them to excel in their areas of expertise. This can be achieved through targeted training and development programs that enhance specific skills and competencies. Additionally, providing challenging assignments and opportunities for professional growth can further stimulate individuals’ motivation and encourage them to reach their full potential. Ultimately, creating a culture that values and supports individual growth and development can lead to increased employee engagement, productivity, and overall organizational success.

Balancing Support and Accountability

Creating a balance between providing support and maintaining accountability is crucial for effective leadership in fostering individual growth and development. Leaders must strive to create a supportive environment while also setting performance expectations for their team members. To achieve this balance, leaders can:

Establish clear goals and objectives: By setting performance expectations, leaders provide a framework for their team members to work towards. This clarity helps individuals understand what is expected of them and promotes accountability.

Provide ongoing feedback and coaching: Leaders should offer regular feedback to guide and support their team members. This feedback should be constructive and focused on helping individuals improve their skills and performance.

Foster a culture of learning and development: Creating a supportive environment means encouraging continuous growth and learning. Leaders should provide opportunities for professional development, such as training programs or mentorship, to help individuals expand their knowledge and skills.

Hold individuals accountable for their actions: While support is essential, leaders must also hold team members accountable for their responsibilities and actions. This accountability ensures that individuals take ownership of their work and strive for excellence.

Celebrating Success and Recognizing Achievements

Recognizing achievements and celebrating success is an important aspect of fostering a positive work culture and motivating team members. Employee recognition plays a significant role in boosting morale and creating a sense of value and accomplishment among employees. Effective motivation techniques can contribute to increased job satisfaction, improved performance, and enhanced employee engagement. Organizations can employ various strategies to recognize and reward employee achievements, such as employee of the month programs, public acknowledgment of accomplishments, or monetary incentives. Additionally, creating a culture of appreciation and gratitude can further enhance employee motivation and satisfaction. Research has shown that when employees feel recognized and appreciated for their efforts, they are more likely to be motivated, committed, and productive. Therefore, implementing employee recognition programs and utilizing effective motivation techniques are essential for fostering a positive work environment and maximizing employee performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can new managers effectively build capability and growth in their teams.

New managers can effectively build capability and growth in their teams by building trust and fostering collaboration. This can be achieved through clear expectations, coaching, asking the right questions, and creating redundancy.

What Are Some Strategies for New Managers to Shift Their Mindset From Being a Player to Being a Coach?

Strategies for new managers to shift their mindset from being a player to being a coach include setting clear expectations, focusing on coaching rather than playing, communicating accountability, and providing necessary tools for team success.

How Can Leaders Ask the Right Questions to Promote Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking in Their Teams?

Leadership communication plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and promoting problem-solving in teams. By asking the right questions, leaders can encourage critical thinking, facilitate the exploration of alternative approaches, and develop team members’ decision-making abilities.

What Are Some Ways That Leaders Can Make Themselves Redundant and Build a Team That Can Function Without Their Constant Involvement?

Leaders can make themselves redundant and build a team that functions independently by fostering autonomy and building independence. This involves delegating tasks, empowering team members, and providing them with the necessary resources and support to excel in their roles.

What Are Some Common Challenges That Individuals Face When Transitioning From an Individual Contributor to a Managerial Role, and How Can They Overcome Them?

Common challenges when transitioning to a managerial role include loss of productivity, administrative overload, and mindset shift. Overcoming them requires recognizing the need to delegate, balancing responsibilities, and focusing on leadership rather than individual contributions.

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Entrepreneurship: the engine of growth driving our economy.

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Benevolent by nature, Kartik is a serial entrepreneur and a pro skydiver. He lives life king-size. Founder & MD of Smartt.Studio .

Entrepreneurship, the art of starting and managing a business venture to make a profit, is the driving force behind our economy's growth.

As a serial entrepreneur, I've witnessed how entrepreneurship is foundational for innovation, job creation and wealth generation. Based on my experiences, here are some ways that entrepreneurship drives the growth of our economy and how individual leaders can become strong contributors to this growth:

Four Ways Entrepreneurship Acts As An Engine Of Growth

Entrepreneurship stimulates competition in the marketplace. When new businesses enter an industry, they often introduce new products or services that can challenge established firms. This competition can lead to lower prices, improved quality and increased innovation as businesses strive to differentiate themselves and meet consumer demand. This healthy competition can ultimately benefit consumers who are able to access a wider range of products and services at more affordable prices.

There are four main ways I see entrepreneurship working to drive our economy; these are areas I think you should keep in mind when starting an enterprise.

Successful entrepreneurs are always looking for new and innovative ways to solve problems and meet the needs of consumers. They are willing to take risks and invest in new ideas that others may not have considered. Through their innovative ideas, entrepreneurs create new products and services, improve existing ones and find better ways to do things.

Job Creation

Entrepreneurship is a significant contributor to job creation. As new businesses are created, they need people to work for them. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in economies and are a significant source of employment with " two out of every three jobs added to the economy" being from SMEs.

Wealth Creation

Successful entrepreneurs not only create jobs but also generate wealth for themselves and their employees. As their businesses grow and become more successful, they generate profits that can be reinvested to fuel further growth.

Economic Growth

As hinted at with innovation, entrepreneurship ultimately leads to the creation of new industries, products and services that increase economic activity. Entrepreneurs greatly contribute to economic development through their fresh innovations.

Contributing To This Engine Of Growth

Here are some ways that entrepreneurs can help drive this growth.

1. Social entrepreneurship. This blends business goals with social or environmental objectives. I encourage you to create ventures that address pressing issues such as poverty, education, healthcare or climate change. By aligning your business with a social mission, you can create positive change while still pursuing profitability.

2. Ethical practices. I believe that you should also prioritize ethical considerations in your business operations. This includes fair labor practices, responsible sourcing, environmental sustainability and giving back to the community.

By demonstrating a commitment to ethical behavior, you can both build trust with consumers and contribute to a more sustainable future. For example, while I do have a team outsourced in India, I make sure there is a benchmark pay for team members and the agency managing them gets a percentage above it.

3. Collaboration and partnerships. Seek opportunities for collaboration with other businesses, nonprofits or government organizations. By joining forces, you can leverage collective resources, expertise and networks to amplify your impact and address complex challenges.

As a start-up, it is all about capitalizing on the partner ecosystem. You may be surprised at the amount of support that is available: Cloud credits from AWS, a business account with Apple, numerous entrepreneur clubs—just to list a few of the ways that organizations give support and invest in the future.

4. Customer-centric approach. Look to truly understand the needs and desires of your target market. Conduct market research, engage in active listening and seek feedback to ensure that your products or services genuinely meet the needs of your customers.

5. Mentorship and support. Pay it forward by offering mentorship and support to aspiring entrepreneurs or disadvantaged individuals.

I find that mentorship is imperative and a non-negotiable, for it is a very different game when you reach your first thousand compared to when you reach your first million. You need somebody experienced who has been a part of a larger organization and is a subject matter expert. My own mentor has been critical in supporting me when it comes to strategy, helping me outline my vision and craft a road map.

Overcoming Challenges

Of course, entrepreneurship is not without its challenges. Starting a new business requires significant resources, including capital, expertise and time. Many entrepreneurs face significant barriers to entry, such as a lack of funding, regulatory obstacles and market saturation.

The main challenges that I believe we can most immediately solve include a lack of access to resources, education and training. To help solve access to resources, we should advocate for policies and initiatives that provide entrepreneurs with access to funding, business support services and mentorship programs.

As far as education and training, we can prioritize equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills and mindset necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and managing a business. This includes utilizing the earlier-mentioned mentorship and partnership programs.

Starting a business can be a challenging and rewarding journey, requiring a combination of hard work, dedication and a willingness to take calculated risks. However, the potential rewards can be immense, not just for the entrepreneurs themselves but for the entire community.

I believe that entrepreneurship is not just about creating wealth; it's about creating value and making a positive impact on society. Entrepreneurs are the ones who identify unmet needs and develop solutions that improve people's lives.

Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?

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