By Maya Rahman-Rios, Elevo, Manager, Communications
With 2024 coming to a close, many of us have spent the last month reflecting, taking the time to celebrate wins, revisiting challenges, and setting intentions for the year ahead. Resolutions often take center stage during this time, but renewing your growth mindset is a more transformative way to ring in 2025. Let’s get into what a growth mindset is and what this reframing entails.
What is a Growth Mindset?
A growth mindset is the belief that skills, intelligence, and talents can be developed through dedication and hard work. Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, it’s the opposite of a fixed mindset, where people see their abilities as static and unchangeable. Taking on a growth mindset can empower you to see challenges as opportunities, failures as lessons, and the true importance of effort.
How to Renew Your Growth Mindset
The new year acts as a natural pause point where we can reassess our attitudes, habits, and beliefs. Here’s how to take time to renew your growth mindset and set the tone for a year of personal development.
Reflect on Your Year
A growth mindset begins with reflection. Ask yourself: What challenges did I face this year? How did I grow because of them? What lessons can I carry forward?
Reframe Failures
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Instead of immediately labeling setbacks as failures, view them as valuable lessons. Each misstep or challenge reveals areas for improvement and opportunities to learn. Be sure to practice self-compassion during this time, as well.
Set Process-Oriented Goals
Have goals for the new year? Consider the process you’ll undergo to achieve them. Breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks can help you prioritize learning and appreciate the journey.
Adopt a Beginner’s Mindset
When faced with a new challenge, it’s important to approach it with openness, regardless of your level of expertise. Questions and feedback are all a part of growing, learning, and transforming.
Surround Yourself with Others Who are Looking to Grow
The people you spend the most time with can help you build your growth mindset. When you engage with growth-oriented individuals, you may just find the inspiration you need to stretch your thinking. You can also dive into books or podcasts that challenge your perspective.
Practice Gratitude
A large part of maintaining a growth mindset is being thankful for the journey. Reaching your goals isn’t always linear; resilience and persistence require a lot of effort. Through journaling or discussion, express gratitude for the lessons learned and the people who supported your growth.
Final Thoughts
Renewing your growth mindset isn’t just about setting goals for 2025. This is your chance to cultivate a lifelong attitude of curiosity, resilience, and continuous learning. As you head into 2025, remember that every effort, no matter how big or small, is a step toward becoming the best version of yourself. Every win counts!
Here’s to a year of growth, transformation, and possibility. Happy New Year!
