Growth Mindset: Week 8

The following is the chart provided by the class. The arrows point to the side that I think I identify with more. If there is no arrow, that means I believe I'm somewhere in the middle.

One of the biggest things I struggle with is taking risks. I tend to stay within my comfort zone. I'm trying to try new things as this semester goes on in my writing and in life in general. This class has also taught me that I cannot get things right the first time. I like that I'm constantly getting comments on my stories that help me improve because it is showing me that it's okay to not get things right the first time. 

Writing stories and experiencing these tales has shown me how much I love to read and tell stories. The assignments have helped me not only improve my weak spots but also develop my strengths. I have learned how to be a better writer, and it has fueled my curiosity not just about the epics but also myself. 

progress

Growth Mindset Challenge: Week 3

Be Great

In this article, author Paul Sohn spoke about the secret phrase that can be used to increase a person's productivity. When coaching, teaching or leading a group in general, it is important to understand the effect feedback has on your team. Using the wrong tone and deter a person from wanting to improve their abilities. Sohn quotes Daniel Coyle about the general phrase we all use for good feedback. Coyle suggests telling the learner to do a certain thing rather than not do another thing. Basically, he insists on using more positively driven words. However, Sohn takes it one step further and claims there is one phrase that will guarantee effective feedback.

"I'm giving you these comments because I have very high expectation and I know that you can reach them."

Sohn found that this sentence alone can increase productivity by at least 40%. This one sentence tells the learner that he or she is part of a special group where higher standards are held. It also signals that the teacher believes them to be worthy of being a part of that group. Saying this simple phrase to another (or to yourself) will have drastic improvements.


Article: The Simple Phrase That Increases Effort 40%

Growth Mindset

Before watching these videos, I had not heard about the Carol Dweck and her thoughts on the growth mindset. For my past, I know I would always think more in the "fixed method". I think this way of thinking stunts your learning by clouding your thoughts with negative thoughts. I learned early on that when I did not put effort into what I was doing, there was a difference in results from when I did. "Not yet" allows a person to be okay with failing because they understand it is needed on the path to success. I would be interested in learning more about this concept because it would encourage me to not only learn more but learn better. One of my biggest goals for this semester is getting into a graduate program. I want to study in a way that would help me achieve that goal and be able to do my best.

embrace change