Leadership is about constructive change and in a busy uncertain and chaotic world any potential change is not without risk. Most of us for one reason or another have a lot invested in the status quo and it does take energy to purposefully change. Carol Dweck a Professor of Psychology at Stanford University work on growth mindset suggests our views and approach to change are developed early in our lives. We tend to fall between two approaches or mindsets on different issues and different circumstances.

By mindset we are referring to the series of beliefs people hold about themselves; their self-perception and how they see the world. How we see the world drives the meaning we create about our experiences and strongly influences the decisions we make.

A growth mindset believes that intelligence and abilities can be developed, while a fixed mindset believes they are set in stone.

A growth mindset leads to behaviours such as embracing challenges, valuing effort and persistence, learning from failure, seeking out opportunities for growth and development, and being open to feedback. In contrast, a fixed mindset can lead to behaviours such as avoiding challenges, giving up easily, being resistant to feedback, and feeling threatened by the success of others

A growth mindset is a powerful tool for achieving success as a leader and happiness in all areas of life. Unlike a fixed mindset, which believes that intelligence and abilities are set in stone, a growth mindset believes that intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard work, learning, and persistence. If you want to develop a growth mindset, here are some steps you can take.

1. Embrace challenges

People with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as threats or obstacles to avoid. To develop a growth mindset, embrace challenges and seek out opportunities to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s learning a new skill, taking on a challenging project at work, or facing a difficult conversation, approach these challenges with a mindset of growth and learning.

2. Emphasise effort over talent

People with a growth mindset understand that success is not just about innate talent or ability, but also about hard work, practice, and persistence. To develop a growth mindset, focus on the effort you put into your goals, rather than just your innate talents or abilities. Recognise that effort is a key ingredient in achieving success, and that hard work and practice can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

3. Embrace failure as an opportunity for growth

People with a growth mindset view failure not as a sign of weakness or incompetence, but as an opportunity for growth and learning. To develop a growth mindset, embrace failure as a natural part of the learning process. Recognise that every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow and that the lessons you learn from failure can help you become stronger and more resilient in the face of future challenges.

4. Cultivate a love of learning

People with a growth-based mindset are lifelong learners who are always seeking out new knowledge and skills. To develop a growth mindset, cultivate a love of learning and a curiosity about the world around you. Seek out new experiences, read widely, and challenge yourself to learn something new every day. By embracing a love of learning, you’ll be able to continually develop your skills and abilities, and stay engaged and motivated throughout your life.

5. Surround yourself with positivity

Finally, people with a growth mindset surround themselves with positivity and support. To develop a growth mindset, seek out positive people who encourage and support your growth and development. Avoid negative people who bring you down or discourage you, and focus on building a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues who share your growth mindset and are committed to helping you achieve your goals.

In conclusion, developing a growth mindset is a powerful way to achieve success as a leader. By embracing challenges, emphasising effort over talent, embracing failure as an opportunity for growth, cultivating a love of learning, and surrounding yourself with positivity, you can develop the mindset of growth and learning that will help you achieve your goals and live your best leadership life.