Growth Mindset
Meaning & Purpose | 12.30.19 | By John O’Hanlon
What is a growth mindset?
A Growth Mindset is the belief that intelligence can be nurtured through learning and effort. Individuals with a growth mindset believe that motivation can be nurtured, and that extrinsic motivation can be internalized!
The first strategy I try to live with is a growth mindset attitude. Even sixteen (17 on 1/17/2026) years after my TBI, my ego makes me feel inferior for having to ask for help with situations that are trivial for others. At this point, I have learned to focus on the good, and to focus on growth. To effectively assist my short-term memory, I try to ask myself how I can utilize a strategy or system as a crutch, so that even if I have a lapse, there is something to check me. And when I inevitably have a lapse, at some point I try to be mindful about the situation and ask myself if I utilized my strategies, and if so, how I might be able to tweak them to account for the error!
Growth Mindset, Brain Injury, and Resilience
Growth mindset also falls in line with never giving up! Never be defeated! I met several doctors whose opinion on the outlook of my recovery was dismal and basically said that I should adjust to my new reality. Although they may not have meant it so bleakly, I internalized this as a dire diagnosis on my situation. Luckily, I had other professionals telling me about neuroplasticity, and who spoke optimistically to me about my recover. They would tell me that I need to heal because one day I would tell my story and help others who are going through something similar. They provided positive framing for my situation, which I could focus on as I slowly progressed over the years.
Want to develop your own growth mindset?
Start journaling! This can help you see where you are getting stuck and is a good way to keep thoughts organized.
Try to frame negative situations in a positive light. Think how a setback may be an opportunity for a new experience.
Reflect on things that you have overcome/have worked on over the months/years. Any growth is important to recognize.
LoveYourBrain Mindset Online
LoveYourBrain’s Mindset program teaches Growth Mindset Theory supported by mindfulness meditations and gentle yoga. I strongly recommend it.
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