Do you know what type of mindset you have? Research about mindsets has identified two types – growth and fixed mindsets. As an entrepreneur, it is valuable to manage your mindset. Over the years that I’ve been in business, I’ve faced challenges as well as successes. Managing and nurturing your mindset is a critical factor in your success…or struggle. So, let’s take a few minutes to explore each type of mindset before you spend time figuring out which mindset you have.

People with a fixed mindset believe their character, intelligence, and other abilities are static. They believe they were born with innate talents and abilities and that their full potential is predetermined – that their traits are unchangeable and cannot be improved upon. Because of this belief, they do not value personal growth.

People with a fixed mindset may:

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine which type of mindset is a person’s predominant type. Life throws us curve balls – successes and challenges. It is how we deal with the “curve balls” that indicates the type of mindset we have.

Here are three examples of someone with a fixed mindset:

A fixed mindset can be detrimental to our professional and personal life. It can prevent us from achieving our full potential and limit our opportunities for success and happiness. Here are some dangers that can develop if we have a fixed mindset:

Now let’s examine a growth mindset. People who have a growth mindset believe that their abilities, intelligence, and talents can be developed and improved upon. They believe they can learn and grow through work, education, perseverance, and dedication.

People with a growth mindset:

Let’s reconsider the “curve balls” that life throws our way. How we handle the “ups and downs” of business and life is a good indicator of the type of mindset we have. For instance:

1 . A student with a growth mindset seeks out difficult courses and seeks feedback from teachers and coaches to improve their abilities.

2 . In a relationship, a person with a growth mindset actively seeks feedback to improve the relationship and may view conflict and difficult conversations as an opportunity to grow and learn.

3 . In their work environment, a person with a growth mindset may seek out new projects and roles that challenge them to learn new skills. They seek feedback from their supervisor and colleagues to improve their abilities.

A variety of research studies have proven that a growth mindset can:

Can you change or improve the type of mindset you have? Yes! Researchers have found a link between a growth mindset and two areas of the brain that are involved in learning and behavioral adaptation. The science of research is a topic beyond the scope of this post. Just know it is possible for you to change your mindset and nurture a growth mindset.

Here are a few tips to help you develop and nurture a growth mindset:

1 . Open your mind to the concept that you can develop and nurture a growth mindset. Our brains are designed to learn, to develop new connections, and new neural pathways. Be open to new experiences, and new learning to strengthen your brain.

2 . Deal with your “negative inner voice.” (See Cultivating An Entrepreneurial Mindset) Let it go. Use your power of positive talk to reduce the impact of a negative inner voice.

3 . Seek feedback as a learning opportunity.

Cultivate a positive attitude. Be selective about the people, media, and messaging you allow to intrude on your mental space.

4 . Monitor your mindset. Be aware of the “ups and downs” that impact your mindset. Take action to adjust/strengthen your mindset when life throws you a “curve ball.” Awareness and monitoring are ongoing processes.

Even a small shift in your mindset can affect a tremendous amount of change in your business and your life. Address your limiting beliefs. Transform limiting beliefs into a growth mindset. Use awareness, reframing, and action to change limiting beliefs and nurture your mindset for growth and success.