15 Growth Mindset Questions to Ask

These 15 growth mindset questions to ask yourself will help you be happy, successful and look forward to trying new things. If you want to feel alive and engaged in the juiciness of life you need to have a growth mindset.

WHAT IS A GROWTH MINDSET?

The term “growth mindset” was coined by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck in her book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.

When you have a growth mindset you believe and act in a way that means you know through practice, study and feedback that you can improve and grow.

You can apply this to anything, from sports, studying or learning a new hobby. You can even apply it to relationships.

People who have a growth mindset do not give up when they fail, they see any failure as feedback. Because of this they are willing to take more risks.

Growth Mindset V Fixed Mindset

When you have a fixed mindset you believe what you are able achieve as well as your skills and talents are mostly determined at birth.

This will make you less likely to try new things and you will avoid risks that may improve your life. When you do try something new, if you do not succeed the first time, you will see it as sign that you are made for it and quit.

Here are some examples of the two mindsets…

Example 1: Feedback

Growth: Feedback helps me grow.

Fixed: Feedback is criticism.

Example 2: Risk

Growth : I like to try new things

Fixed: I stick to what I am good at.

How To Know Your Current Mindset

Go through different areas of your life and ask “Do I believe I can improve in this area through practice, guidance and feedback?”

Also look at your past achievements and failures. Where did you improve and where did you give up?

Also, these 15 growth mindset questions to ask yourself will not only help you develop a growth mindset but also highlight where you are currently.

Together, all of the above will give you a good idea of your current mindset.

15 Growth Mindset Question to Ask Yourself

Take your time with these questions but don’t over think it and try to give the “right” answer.

If you don’t like a mindset you have, you can change it, that’s a growth mindset!

1. What can I learn from this experience?

This question encourages individuals to view setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth, rather than as failures.

2. What are the potential benefits of facing this challenge?

It shifts focus from the difficulty of a task to the potential rewards and personal development that can come from overcoming it.

3. How can I improve my skills in this area?

This question encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of continuous improvement.

4. What strategies have worked for others in similar situations?

Learning from others’ experiences can provide valuable insights and solutions.

5. Am I willing to put in the effort required to achieve my goals?

This question highlights the importance of effort and determination in reaching one’s objectives.

6. What is one small step I can take right now to move closer to my goal?

Focusing on small, achievable steps makes daunting tasks more manageable and promotes progress.

7. How can I turn my setbacks into comebacks?

It encourages resilience and the ability to bounce back stronger after facing challenges.

8. What new skills or knowledge can I acquire to help me overcome this obstacle?

Emphasizing the acquisition of new skills reinforces the idea that abilities can be developed.

9. Do I view mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow?

A positive response to mistakes is a key aspect of a growth mindset.

10. Am I open to feedback and constructive criticism?

Being receptive to feedback allows for personal and professional growth.

11. How can I maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity?

Maintaining positivity during challenging times can improve problem-solving and resilience.

12. What inspires and motivates me to keep pushing forward?

Identifying sources of motivation helps individuals stay committed to their goals.

13. Can I embrace the journey of learning, even if it means making slow progress at times?

Recognizing that growth often involves gradual progress helps individuals stay patient and persistent.

14. Am I willing to step out of my comfort zone to pursue new opportunities?

Growth often occurs when individuals challenge themselves and explore new horizons.

15. How can I celebrate my achievements, no matter how small they may seem?

Celebrating even small victories reinforces a positive mindset and provides motivation for further growth.

HOW TO GET A GROWTH MINDSET

In addition to the insights you got from the above questions here are things you can do to develop a growth mindset…

Develop a Growth Mindset by Learning Something New – You will see yourself improve which will change how you think about your skills and talents.

Power of Yet – This is from Carol Dweck’s book. She says if you are not good at something, use the word yet. “I am not good at this yet”

Get Feedback – See feedback as useful information to help you grow, not as criticism . Actively go and seek it.

Become comfortable with mistakes – they are part of the learning process, they are also feedback.

Keep Track of Improvements – As you see yourself improving over time your mindset will automatically change.

Be Kind to Yourself – Growth mindset people do not beat themselves up if they make mistakes or if things are taking longer than they expected.

Be Realistic – Don’t expect miracles. Growth and improvement take time. Keep at it and you will improve. We have to operate within the laws of physics.

Stop Worrying About What Others Think – They have their own issues, focus on yourself. The people who criticize you are the ones who do not try anything themselves.

For more on ways to develop a growth mindset, go to this article : How To Develop A Growth Mindset To Achieve Your Goals And Overcome Challenges.