What is your Mindset?

Researcher Carol Dweck says we have 2 types of mindsets: fixed mindset and growth mindset. In my days as a curriculum coordinator, I studied much of Dweck’s research. It was fascinating. Our job as educators, was to cultivate a growth mindset.

Fixed Mindset: Intelligence is static.

Growth Mindset: Intelligence can be developed.

These two mindsets are determined by the type of environments you are in, what you feed your brain, who you surround yourself with, and many other factors. Dweck goes on to say, “For twenty years, my research has shown that the view you adopt for yourself profoundly affects the way you lead your life.”

How are you leading your life? I am trying an experiment this week: I took Facebook off my phone. For the past few days, I have found myself peaceful, thoughtful and not having FOMO (Fear of Missing Out!). Instead, I have enjoyed more quiet time, focused behavior, and quality time with my family. Coincidence? Maybe. But I would like to believe it is a change in my mindset.

A handful of us have been working through Jennie Allen’s study, Get Out of Your Head. Our minds go through many spirals of emotions, to thoughts, to behaviors, to consequences. It has been a great study to see just how what we put into our heads can lead us astray. The enemy can crush us with one negative thought. Enter the ‘THOUGHT FORMULA’ Jennie shares.

(Negative Emotion), and (reason), so I will (choice).

Example: I’m upset, and I was passed over, so I will choose to remember that God has not forgotten me.

So, what are you letting take over your mind? What mindset do you choose to have? I encourage you this week, to try something different. Feed your intelligence and grow!

Get Out of Your Head: https://www.jennieallen.com/gooyh

Carol Dweck: https://www.brainpickings.org/2014/01/29/carol-dweck-mindset/