Mindset

A serendipitous gift (from Ross Yarrow), this was a worthwhile and inspiring read. Dr. Dweck is a highly regarded researcher in the field of developmental/social psychology. While somewhat preaching to the converted, the point behind Mindset is to provide the toolkit for individuals to move away from a “fixed” to a “growth” mindset. The logic for the latter is that it implicitly requires a belief in positive thinking; less of why have I failed (in respect of a certain project) and more where can I improve? A growth mindset embraces both the capacity for change and the desire to learn; think of it as a process of continual improvement. Where I have sympathy (beyond practicing the above) is that it encompasses part of the Darwinian and Keynesian philosophies I have long advocated: a responsiveness to change and a recognition of the fact that when the facts change, so do you have to. Mindset also implicitly advocates a more mindful approach to interactions, be it with family, friends, or business partners. Written in a down-to-earth fashion, this is a thoughtful and relevant work.

By Carol S. Dweck