We have beliefs about our abilities. Belief that our intelligence and abilities can be improved with effort and the right strategies is called growth mindset. Belief that our intelligence and abilities are unchangeable is called fixed mindset.
Cultivating a growth mindset is strongly linked to greater happiness and achievement in life. Studies suggest that a growth mindset helps us adapt, change, and grow, that is, to be resilient.
This short video tells more about mindset.
“Making mistakes helps you learn, because your brain keeps trying new things and stretching until you figure out the answer to your problem.” Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak
In Mission:CONTROL!, Joseph changed his mindset from “I can’t turn off the TV” to “I can handle it.”
He used some strategies that helped him shift his mindset. For example, he paused and took some deep breaths, he borrowed his mom’s calm, he acted out his big feelings as Robojo, and he used will power. (Or we’ll power because he, Robojo, and Gretchen worked together to get in control.)
Application
(self talk messages)
I have not learned how to do this…yet.
I can do this using a strategy and effort.
I am in charge of growing my brain stronger and smarter.
I can grow my brain by practicing hard things.
I can practice and learn how to do this.
I can grow my brain by learning hard things.
I can learn from my mistakes and get better.
New things can be hard at first. Practice makes it easier. (one of Joseph’s posters he used to have on his wall.)
(visual messages)
Display visuals such as this one (https://biglifejournal.com/collections/posters/products/you-can-learn-anything-poster-pdf) or create visuals that are meaningful to your child. (Big Life Journal incorporates the latest research in positive psychology, brain science, and youth development.)
(video messages)
Steps to take
Small step: Take the mindset quiz: https://blog.mindsetworks.com/what-s-my-mindset
Advanced step: Read Your Fantastic Elastic Brain and talk with your child about the messages in it:
Trying new things without giving up strengthens your brain.
Making mistakes is one of the best ways the brain learns.
Check it out
Get ready to "BLAST OFF" with Joseph and Gretchen in their exciting big feelings adventure "Mission: CONTROL! A Big Feelings Adventure!" Buy your copy here.