Page 24 - Chaffee College Student Planner and Handbook 2021-2022

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on their success in college (Dweck, 2006). When students believe that these basic qualities (like intelligence) don’t really change much, then that belief tends to lead to a ‘fixed’ mindset. When students believe these qualities can change with the right amount of effort, practice, knowledge, and strategy, then that belief tends to lead to a ‘growth’ mindset. Many people may have a growth mindset in one area of their life and a fixed mindset in another area. Research has shown that people who approach a goal with a growth mindset are much more successful and happy in the long-term perspective.
Fixed Mindset Beliefs and Behaviors
Growth Mindset Belief and Behaviors
• Intelligence, talent, athleticism, etc. can’t really change much
• Effort isn’t necessary for natural intelligence/talent
• Obstacles are signs that I shouldn’t pursue a goal
• Believe that failure reflects on my value, intelligence, and/or talent
• Avoid challenges/don’t take many risks/set easy-to-achieve goals
• Give up easily when things don’t go my way
• Need to prove my intelligence, talent, etc. to others often
• Don’t use feedback/ get defensive over feedback
• Express insecurity or high anxiety
• Basic qualities (intelligence, talent, etc.) are just the starting point for development
• I can nurture my basic qualities with effort, practice, and strategy
• I feel confident about my ability to learn and grow
• Failures provide good learning opportunities
• Enjoy and seek challenges/ set challenging goals
• Continue pursuing goals despite obstacles
• Seek and use feedback to improve
• Express confidence and a positive attitude toward learning
Since mindsets are based on our basic beliefs about ourselves and learning, we have the ability to change our beliefs and, as a result, our actions can change as well. Succeeding in college is never easy, but with the right mindset (believing in one’s ability to grow and learn) and high hope (setting goals, taking responsibility towards learning, and overcoming obstacles), students can have a rewarding and energizing experience that will prepare them for their future careers and studies outside of Chaffey College.
Dweck, Carol S. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Random House, 2006. Print. Halvorson, Heidi Grant-. Succeed: How We Can Reach Our Goals. New York, NY: Hudson Street, 2011. Print.
Snyder, C. R., Shane J. Lopez, Hal S. Shorey, Kevin L. Rand, and David B. Feldman. "Hope Theory, Measurements, and Applications to School Psychology." School Psychology Quarterly 18.2 (2003): 122-39. Print.