A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and perseverance. I listened to a great episode about growth mindset on the Huberman Lab podcast recently. Here are a few helpful things I gleaned from his notes.

Effort-Based Feedback

Effort-based feedback, as opposed to performance or intelligence-based feedback, has emerged as a powerful tool in promoting growth mindsets. Simply acknowledging and praising one’s effort can have a profound impact. When individuals are told that they put in a great deal of effort, it motivates them to perform better and take on more challenging tasks. This is opposed to saying things like, “You are so smart,” or “You are a great athlete,” which actually may be a detriment. Here’s why.

Studies have shown that children who received intelligence-based feedback tended to shy away from challenging tasks to maintain their identity as “smart.” Paradoxically, this led to stagnation in their learning and decreased performance over time. Moreover, they often misrepresented their actual performance, claiming to have done better than they actually did. In contrast, children who received effort-based feedback not only improved their performance but also maintained honesty about their achievements.

Verbs Over Labels

Our identities are often unwittingly shaped by the labels we receive, such as “smart” or “talented,” rather than the actions we take, like “working hard” or “persisting.” The power of adopting a growth mindset lies in embracing action-oriented identities. When we define ourselves by our actions and efforts, we become more adaptable and open to growth.

A growth mindset allows us to view errors and underperformance as opportunities for learning rather than reasons to give up. This perspective fosters perseverance in the face of challenges.

Learning from Diverse Perspectives

Another crucial aspect of developing a growth mindset is seeking help and insights from various sources, including those who have succeeded and those who have faced failures. Learning from both ends of the spectrum offers a well-rounded understanding of the task at hand. Those who have succeeded can provide guidance and strategies, while those who have failed can offer valuable lessons from their experiences.

Embracing Stress as a Catalyst for Growth

Stress, often viewed negatively, can actually be a catalyst for growth when harnessed effectively. Understanding how stress can enhance performance is vital in navigating life’s challenges. Stress triggers the release of hormones that can sharpen focus, increase alertness, and improve decision-making in critical situations.

Stress is not an antiquated relic of our hunting and predator-avoidance days; it has served us in various facets of life, including relationships and child-rearing. It can motivate us to adapt and overcome obstacles, pushing our boundaries and facilitating personal growth.

However, it’s essential to distinguish between acute and prolonged stress. While acute stress can be beneficial, chronic stress can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health. Learning to manage and mitigate prolonged stressors is crucial for overall well-being.

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