Healthy Mind

Growth Mindset

Nurturing a growth mindset helps build resilience and motivation to persist even in the face of adversity. Most often times, failure keeps us from thinking positively and knocks us down. It sends people spiraling into a fixed mindset in which people assume that their character and their circumstances are static and cannot be changed. A growth mindset, on the other hand, thrives on challenge and sees failure not as evidence of unintelligence or an end, but as an opportunity for growth.

Growth Mindset Practice

Find a comfortable position. When you have done so, slowly close your eyes. Take a moment to breathe. Inhale gently through your nose and exhale deeply through your mouth. Inhale — and exhale.
At this time, a series of statements will be shared with you. Please take a moment to ponder what each of these means to you:
– There are some things I am just not good at.
– I don’t mind failing. It’s a good chance to learn.
– I like trying new things, even if it means getting out of my comfort zone.
– It’s easy to find ways to accomplish what I want to do
– My past experiences prevent me from accomplishing my goals
– I can do difficult things
– Mistakes help me learn and grow.

At this time, we are going to practice developing an if/then statement and work towards a more positive growth mindset. This is a simple way that one can come up with solutions to a change in plans by problem solving through situations and seeing “struggle” as part of the learning process. Here is how the if/then plan works: instead of just setting a goal and going for it, attempt to consider possible obstacles or setbacks you may encounter along the way. Here’s an example:

Goal: I will complete all my house cleaning tasks this afternoon.

If/then: If I do not finish by this afternoon, I will try again tomorrow.

If/then: If I do not finish by this afternoon, I will ask my husband/wife to help me.

Please think of at least two goals you have for this week. For each goal, think of three if/then plans to overcome or manage obstacles that may come your way. Write your responses down on a piece of paper.

If you enjoyed this practice, you may also like: https://lifestylemedical.com/letting-go/

Reference: https://www.mindsetworks.com/science/

By Dipika Pandit, MD, MPH Dr. Dipika Pandit believes in building a healthy lifestyle that empowers you to heal, not just getting you on the next pill. Dr. Dipika completed her medical training at Loma Linda University – including medical school, and a combined residency in Family Medicine & Preventive Medicine. She believes that health is more than just the physical body, and encompasses the relationships we surround ourselves with, as well as our own spiritual, mental, and emotional nurturing. Dr. Dipika is passionate about empowering people and community – to take control of their health through lifestyle changes, and to increase their quality of life.