Begin by explaining the difference between a fixed mindset (believing abilities are static and unchangeable) and a growth mindset (believing abilities can be developed through effort and learning). Use examples relevant to their experiences and aspirations.

Discuss the various benefits a growth mindset can bring, such as resilience, continuous learning, openness to feedback, improved performance, and overall personal growth.

Talk about how they can recognize fixed mindset thinking in themselves. Fixed mindset thoughts often include phrases like “I can’t,” “I’m not a…person,” or “It’s just too hard.”

Teach them to reframe fixed mindset thoughts into growth mindset thoughts. For instance, “I can’t do this” can be reframed to “I can’t do this yet, but I can learn.”

Explain how challenges are opportunities for growth and learning rather than obstacles to avoid. Share examples of successful people who have faced and overcome significant challenges.

Emphasize the importance of ‘yet’ in their vocabulary. This simple word transforms statements of inability into goals to strive for. For example, instead of saying “I don’t understand,” they can say, “I don’t understand yet.”

Discuss the importance of effort, persistence, and hard work in achieving goals. Encourage them to see effort as a path to mastery and to be tenacious in their pursuit of their goals.

Teach them to view failure as a learning opportunity rather than a measure of their worth or capability. Share stories of successful entrepreneurs who experienced failures along their journey.

Talk about the value of feedback and how it can aid in growth and improvement. Help them understand that criticism is not personal but is a tool for development.

Assist them in setting goals that encourage a growth mindset. These goals should focus on learning and improving, not just on achieving a specific outcome.

Reinforce the idea that developing a growth mindset is a gradual process. It takes practice, patience, and a willingness to confront one’s own fixed mindset beliefs.