How To Leverage Growth Mindset Activities in the Midst of Change

By DeVry University

June 24, 2020
6 min read

The world is always changing— this fact is clearer than ever in 2020. From the way we communicate to the ways we work, there are factors driving disruption in our lives on a regular basis. And while it may seem challenging at first, this can often be the perfect environment for leveraging growth mindset activities that can help you thrive in the midst of change.

These factors lead to the question: what is the key to success in an environment in which the only sure thing is change?

The answer is something that impacts how people think, learn and behave: their mindset. Especially during times of uncertainty, having a growth-oriented perspective is critical.

When companies adopt fixed mindset approaches, however, employees can feel insecure and caught up in cheating and deception. Because a fixed mindset is based in achievement and talent, companies with this kind of environment tend to discourage openness and instead promote competition within the workforce.

Cultivating a culture that celebrates collaboration, allows for errors and encourages constructive feedback as learning opportunities thus promoting a company-wide growth mindset.

Understanding these triggers and confronting them when they arise is critical. A great way to start is to develop a couple of helpful practices for cultivating a growth mindset.

Question your assumptions.

We can easily become trapped in our own perceptions of and assumptions about the world. Our opinions, thoughts, values and beliefs are so enmeshed in our thought-processes that it can be a struggle to break free of them.

However, questioning your existing assumptions can help you have a more open mind. An open mind can learn something new from almost any situation.

Focus on the process, not the outcome.

The iceberg metaphor is helpful when conceptualizing this suggestion. When we see an iceberg in the ocean, we are viewing only the 10% of it that's floating above the surface. These are the visible results, such as landing a great promotion or not getting the recognition you have been working toward. Success versus failure.

Below the surface, however, is the remaining 90% of the iceberg. Here, we have everything that comes together to achieve a given outcome. All the hard work, positive self-talk, continuous learning and pivoting that led to that outcome.

Someone with a fixed mindset might see the top of the iceberg and say, "I succeeded" or "I failed." Someone with a growth mindset would point out all of the learning that took place along the way—and understand how that learning helped them become the person they are today.

Grow from your setbacks.

When you make a mistake, receive criticism or fall short of achieving something you thought you would, it's important to focus on the progress you have made despite the setback. After all, this setback could be just what you need to experience in order to find success the next time around.

Advancing your education can be a great way to cultivate a growth mindset. Wondering where to start? Explore our degree and certificate programs or contact us.