Do I have a "Fixed Mindset?" I worry about my performance
My qualities are set in stone—either I've got it, or I don't
I was born gifted
I have natural talents
I feel the need to prove myself over and over
I need to have people tell me how smart, talented, or wonderful I am
I feel like everyone is judging me
I have confidence, but it is fragile
Success is about proving I'm smart
Failure is an identity—"I am a failure."
My Interpretations
If the work is flawed, so am I
I'm naturally gifted; I don't need to study
When things get tough, I think:
I can't do it. I'm stupid. I hope nobody
else has figured this out.
This is hard. If it looks like I am working hard they won't think I'm brilliant any more, so I'll stop trying. Then they'll start reassuring me I'm smart.
Don't give me constructive criticism. My projects are the best in the class. Just tell me how great I am.
People with a fixed mindset might say to you
You are so smart
I'm impressed! You got an A and I didn't even see you study
You know you're smart enough to do better
You're wasting your potential
Having a Growth mindset or a positive attitude is only half the battle. The big question is..
Are you willing to take action and make it happen?
Do I have a "Growth Mindset?" I continually try to improve
Basic qualities are things I can develop through my efforts. This leads to a desire to improve
I realize everyone has different talents, abilities, interests, and personalities, but everyone can change and grow through practice and experience
I need accurate assessments of my skills so I can grow
Why waste time trying to prove how great I am when I could be using that time to get even better
Success is about learning
Failure is an opportunity to grow
My interpretations
I got a low grade. I could have worked harder, but I really should have worked smarter. I didn’t accept the teacher's help or extra study materials. I will use it this time, study smarter, and show the teacher I can really master this material.
Wow, I have worked really hard, listened to the teacher, persisted through the tough parts and look how much I have improved.
People with a growth mindset might say to you
It’s hard going but it will be worth it in the end
She’s brilliant at the piano; she must practice everyday to be that good