Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
Mindset is one of those life-altering books for learning professionals. It should also be on the reading list for all parents - if only because many school administrators and teachers have read it or been taught its principles.
The book is full of fascinating data and stories, but the gist of it comes down to this. People have 1 of 2 mindsets - fixed or growth. Fixed essentially believes that you have a certain skill level based on natural talent or abilities and you cannot exceed it. Growth believes that you always learn and grow provided you put in the effort.
Spoiler - the Growth mindset is always better. However, it doesn't mean you can be or do anything. There are limits to skills and knowledge. However, those with growth mindsets almost always perform better in the long run.
Also important to note that you can have a growth mindset in one area and a fixed in another. Each individual probably has both mindsets.
As a manager, you need to focus on promoting and working with your team in a growth mindset. If you have someone on your team that has a fixed mindset, make changing that a critical part of their development.
Comments