The Mindsets: Fixed Mindset v. Growth Mindset

The Mindsets: Fixed Mindset v. Growth Mindset
Name
Institution
The Mindsets: Fixed Mindset v. Growth Mindset
A mindset is a set of beliefs and convictions about an individual's basic abilities and qualities. It encompasses what a person thinks or believes about his or her talents, abilities, intelligence, and opportunities for improvement.
A fixed mindset is the belief that one's abilities, intelligence, and talents are fixed and cannot be improved. An individual with a fixed mindset believes that they possess a certain amount of intelligence and talents, and therefore anything they achieve is a reflection of all of their ability. They also believe that they cannot do things or tasks that are above their brain-level because they do not have the intelligence/talent threshold to do it.
A growth mindset is one that views talents, intelligence, and abilities as the starting point rather than the determinant of what an individual can achieve. People with a growth mindset believe that talent and intelligence alone cannot achieve a lot without putting in efforts and dedication.
A fixed mindset differs from a growth mindset in the way they perceive their abilities and potential, as well as in their attitudes toward obstacles and challenges. The fixed mindset is guided by the idea that “individuals are what they are,” and nothing about them can be changed. Theirs is a fixed potential with no room for personal development. For example, students who are poor in math have a fixed mindset because they believe they are not endowed with math skills. They believe that their brains are not wired to understand mathematical concepts. As a result, they do little to improve their performance in math. They avoid difficult tasks because they will reveal their shortcomings.
In contrast, a growth mindset is informed by the idea that there is no limit to what a person can do. People with a growth mindset believe that the intelligen...