mindset the new psychology of success dweck

There’s a name for believing in our ability to grow and change what some assume to be fixed or immutable characteristics: having a growth mindset. We have incredible influence over our skills and abilities-likely far more influence than we think. Except in extremely rare cases of strong genetics, our genes don’t define anything about us. It takes an incredible amount of talent AND hard work to become the greatest at anything.Īlthough the vast majority of us won’t become the greatest at our craft, this simple truth has some important applications for us as well, namely: we get where we are through a combination of innate ability and effort. Michael Jordan didn’t skip practices and lounge around in his free time. However, there is an important piece that many people don’t see-you don’t become the greatest by riding on your innate talent alone.Įinstein didn’t simply spend a few afternoons writing a book then kick back and relax. The answer to both questions is, of course, almost certainly “No.” The most exceptional people in any area would likely not be at the top without some innate abilities. Would Michael Jordan have been able to become the phenomenal player that he is without inherent talent for basketball? After all, Einstein couldn’t have revolutionized a field with a below-average intelligence, right? It’s easy to look at the achievements of exceptional people and think that their success comes from their innate gifts. The question is not so much one of how much we appreciate the value of work, but whether we have overemphasized the importance of natural ability. We know that working hard (and working smart) is a good way to achieve our goals. Of course, working hard has always been valued. You’ve probably heard of this movement before-it’s swept the nation and the world into a newfound appreciation for the potential to be found in hard work.

Mindset the new psychology of success dweck