Lately, you can find posts that attribute just about everything from your lousy mood to your lack of initiative, and maybe even your poor spelling, to your “mindset.” Consequently, there is entirely too much mystery surrounding what “mindset” means and what mindset you “should” have. We have really over-complicated things. In this post about the definition of mindset, I will give you my straightforward definition of mindset.
But first, why do we care? Because, spoiler alert – your mindset is key to your outcomes.
There, I have saved you all sorts of time and money – all done!
Were you expecting something deeper or more intense? Need a little more of a definition? Okay, read on…
What is the definition of mindset?
Truthfully, there are many definitions of mindset and before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to manage it, let’s establish what is meant when people use the term “mindset.”
According to the Merriam-Webster all-knowing, all-defining dictionary, “mindset” is defined as, “a mental attitude or inclination.” Similarly, Cambridge.org defines it as “a person’s way of thinking and their opinions.”
However my favorite definition of mindset is from Carol Dweck, who wrote, in her AMAZING book, “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” that
“Mindsets are just beliefs. They’re powerful beliefs, but they’re just something in your mind…”
Carol Dweck
Did you just hear a mic drop too?
I’ll give you a moment.
Take a breath.
Read that again.
Cringe a little.
Look around suspiciously, see if anyone witnessed your mind being blown by the understanding that mindsets are just beliefs, in your mind. 🤯
And here is where that “managing” comes in. YOU can create them, which also means that YOU can destroy them.
Okay, more deep breaths, we’re in this together, I am here for you – let’s dig a little deeper.
Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset
Now you are thinking that I started off telling you NOT to over-complicate things, but now I’m telling you there are two different mindsets. It is very likely you think I’m the one over-complicating it now. However, I promise, this makes it easier to understand.
Simply put, a fixed mindset means you believe your intelligence, life, surroundings, circumstances (read: ALL THE THINGS) are fixed, set in place with the world’s strongest Gorilla Glue, never to be moved. A life set in stone, if you will. For example, “I will never be good at parallel parking, so I will drive an extra 20 minutes to find an easy pull-in spot.”
A growth mindset means that your intelligence, life, soundingings, circumstances…ALL THE THINGS can be developed or changed. Not magically. Not on their own, but you know that you can change it. For example, “I suck at parallel parking because I drive an extra 20 minutes to find an easy pull-spot instead of taking the time to practice it and giving myself a chance to get better.”
Simultaneously, you may have a fixed mindset for some things, and a growth mindset for other things. Neither is permanent (though if you’re in a fixed mindset, you may not realize that), nor will you ALWAYS have a growth mindset about something. Like all worthwhile things in life, it takes work, honesty (with yourself), and a bit of grit to change your mindset.
The Definition of Mindset Is Backed By Data
If you’re still unsure of the difference between a growth vs fixed mindset, here is some data.
There’s research by Stanford University that mindset is a more significant contributor to academic success than even socioeconomic background. To that point, a study by McKinsey found that a growth mindset closes achievement gaps among students by 30-50%.
If you’re looking for more information and examples on growth mindsets and fixed mindsets, you can read more here. Subsequently, if you’re curious if you have some fixed mindsets that are holding you back, check out the 4 signs that your mindset is holding you back + 1 bonus strategy to change your mindset NOW.
The bottom line…
Change Your Mindset, Change Your Life
I didn’t share the full Carol Dweck quote in the beginning of this post. It is…
“Mindsets are just beliefs. They’re powerful beliefs, but they’re just something in your mind, and you can change your mind.”
Carol Dweck
You can change your mindset. YOU have the power to do this – but only you; no one else can do it for you. That being said, I would be honored to help you in that journey, let’s schedule a chemistry call to see how we can work together!
Next Steps In Your Extraordinary Journey…
- Ready to start making meaningful mindset changes right now? Schedule a chemistry call to connect and see how we can proceed together.
- On the fence? Not sure if you’re ready? Take this “Are You Ready For Change?” Quiz to find out.
- Curious about Mindset Coaching? Check out my blog, “What is Mindset Coaching?”
- Start changing your mindsets today with a daily affirmation practice. Learn more and sign up here.