A growth mindset is the belief that you are able to learn from your mistakes and grow in your intelligence, abilities, etc.

People with a growth mindset may make statements like, "I can learn from my mistakes," or, "I like to try new things!"

The opposite of this is called a fixed mindset, which is the belief that you cannot learn from your mistakes or develop your skills or intellect.

People with this mindset might say phrases like, "I'm not good at anything!" or, "I'll never get this right."

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The first step in developing a growth mindset is choosing to view failure as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

Instead of being discouraged, try to think thought how you can learn from your mistake.

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If you get a question wrong, instead of thinking you cannot understand it, try solving it a different way or asking your teacher for help.

Perhaps you messaged your teacher and it seems like they are upset with you. Maybe the way they responded hurt your feelings. Try asking if they are upset or let them know that you were hurt! You will probably be surprised how willing they are to apologize or clarify miscommunication.

The next step is to recognize that failure, disappointment, and mistakes are a natural part of success.

In the picture below, the Iceberg Illusion teaches us a few principles.

1. We often focus on the final outcome but not what it took to get there.

2. When we are learning something new, we will make mistakes! It is important to give ourselves grace.

3. Keep trying! Perseverance is one of the biggest factors of success.

Another step in developing a growth mindset is striving for progress not perfection.

We often get discouraged because we feel like we cannot meet our end goal. Instead of focusing on what you have not yet accomplished, ask yourself this question:

Have I improved since a week ago? A month ago? A year ago?

Chances are that you have learned from a mistake you made on your math homework yesterday or unkind word you said to another person last week. Perhaps you finally understand how to write a topic sentence or you have the courage to call someone on the phone.

Whatever progress you have made, choose to celebrate it!

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One way to celebrate progress is to keep a gratitude journal. In this journal, you write down anything you are thankful for. This can help you have a more positive outlook on many different situations in addition to learning. Here are a few examples!

In the following video, Dojo learns that is able to grow and change. He is not limited by his failure.

Part of a growth mindset includes focusing on what you can change rather than what you can't. When you get a low grade on your research paper or feel unappreciated by your friends, remember that you have a choice.

What attitude are you going to have? Are you going to let this low point define you or help you grow?

Many famous and successful people failed at one point or another. Someone told them the could never succeed or that their ideas were not any good. Check out these famous failures below!

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Developing a growth mindset also includes replacing lies or negative thoughts with positive and true ones.

One way we can do this is by focusing on a particular Bible verse for a week.

Here are a few that may encourage you today!