The Power of "Not Yet": Embracing a Growth Mindset
Embracing the Power of "Not Yet" for a Growth Mindset
In her powerful TED Talk, Carol Dweck introduces the concept of "not yet" as a cornerstone of the growth mindset. This idea profoundly resonates with me, especially in my journey from being a full-time teacher for 20 years to launching my own coaching business. The notion that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work has been transformative for me, as has how I approach parenting and personal growth.
Understanding the Growth Mindset
Carol Dweck’s research distinguishes between two mindsets: fixed and growth. A fixed mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence are static traits; you either have them or you don't. This mindset can lead to a fear of failure, avoidance of challenges, and a reluctance to put in effort because failure is seen as a reflection of inherent inadequacy.
Conversely, a growth mindset embraces challenges, persists through setbacks, views effort as essential for mastery, learns from criticism, and finds lessons and inspiration in others' success. The phrase "not yet" embodies this mindset by suggesting that abilities are not fixed but can be developed over time. This approach creates an environment where learning and growth are continuous processes.
The Power of "Not Yet"
The concept of "not yet" shifts the focus from immediate success to the learning process. Instead of seeing failure as a definitive end, "not yet" redefines it as a step toward mastery. This subtle yet powerful shift can dramatically alter how we approach challenges and setbacks.
Moving from a secure teaching position to the uncertainty of starting my own coaching business required a growth mindset. I had to constantly remind myself that I was not yet where I wanted to be, but every effort and setback was a step forward. This perspective helped me navigate the steep learning curve and the inevitable challenges of entrepreneurship.
Fixed Mindset vs. Growth Mindset
Fixed Mindset:
Fear of Failure: Avoiding challenges that might expose perceived inadequacies.
Avoidance of Effort: Viewing effort as fruitless if not inherently talented.
Defensive: Taking criticism personally, leading to defensiveness rather than learning.
Static Perception: Seeing intelligence and talents as unchangeable.
Growth Mindset:
Embrace Challenges: Viewing challenges as opportunities to grow and learn.
Persistence: Recognizing effort as crucial to mastery.
Learning from Criticism: Seeing feedback as valuable for improvement.
Dynamic Perception: Believing intelligence and talents can be developed with time and effort.
Applying the Growth Mindset in Daily Life
Reframe Challenges: View challenges as opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge. This reframe can reduce stress and increase motivation.
Celebrate Effort: Recognize and celebrate the effort you put into tasks, regardless of the outcome. This fosters resilience and a love for learning.
Learn from Setbacks: Analyze setbacks and failures for lessons that can inform future efforts. This helps transform perceived failures into stepping stones for success.
Encourage "Not Yet": Incorporate the language of "not yet" in self-talk and with others. This reinforces the belief that growth and improvement are ongoing processes.
Empowering Myself and My Kids
For women balancing leadership roles and family responsibilities, the growth mindset offers a framework for managing stress and preventing burnout. By viewing abilities as evolving, we can approach our responsibilities with a sense of possibility and resilience.
Example with My Kids: When my kids struggle with schoolwork, I remind them of the power of "not yet." Instead of saying, "I can't do this," we reframe it to "I can't do this yet." This simple shift encourages them to see their abilities as developable. We celebrate their efforts and progress, not just their grades.
Example with My Business: Launching my coaching business was filled with moments of doubt and setbacks. Instead of letting these challenges deter me, I embraced the growth mindset. I viewed each obstacle as a learning opportunity, understanding that I was not yet where I wanted to be, but each step was getting me closer.
Key Takeaways
Shift Perspective: Embrace the belief that abilities can be developed over time with effort and dedication.
Foster Resilience: Use setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth rather than failure indicators.
Cultivate a Love for Learning: Celebrate the learning process and the effort involved rather than just the outcome.
Build Support Systems: Engage in communities that support and reinforce the growth mindset.
Conclusion
The power of "not yet" and the growth mindset is transformative, especially for professional women and moms in leadership roles. By shifting the focus from fixed traits to potential development, we can navigate challenges with resilience and a sense of possibility. Embracing this mindset enhances personal growth and fosters a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Programs like Zenyth: Back to Brilliance provide the tools, support, and community needed to thrive, transforming challenges into opportunities for lasting success.
Thanks for reading.
Live Well,
Claire x
