Fixed mindset
A fixed mindset is the belief that abilities and characteristics are largely fixed, so that a mistake is perceived as evidence of lack of competence.
Definition
It can lead to avoiding challenges, hiding mistakes and choosing tasks that confirm the self-image you already have. It does not mean a complete lack of development, but it hinders learning when a person protects identity rather than testing strategy.
Key ideas
- Constancy of ability
- Avoiding error
- Protecting your self-image
Practice and life
Replace "I can't do it" with "I don't have a strategy that works yet." Then select one learning experiment.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to shame yourself for your fixed mindset. This is often a learned way of protecting yourself from judgment that can be gradually weakened.
> When ability seems fixed, every trial looks like a test of worth.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- Where do I treat error as evidence of lack of value?
- What label did I assign to myself too soon?
- How to treat a trial as an experiment?