Success Depends on Mindset
Often times we believe we did not complete a goal because it was too overwhelming or complex, and we need to think smaller next time. Other times we resort to blaming our skill level or knowledge base for not completing a goal. It is true that smaller goals can be easier to complete and having the right skill level or knowledge base can be beneficial. However, these things mean nothing if you have a negative mindset. With the right mindset, you can overcome any obstacles and complete any goal you set for yourself.
Tips for Shifting Your Mindset
According to corporate psychologist, Patricia Thompson, PhD, these are the four most common mindset shifts you’ll need to undertake to make your dreams and goals a reality:
- Change “I’ll try” to “I’ll Do.” Saying you “will try” to complete a goal or task is setting your mind up to be okay with it not working out. Saying you “will do” something is being fully committed and will ensure you don’t give in to challenges or setbacks.
- Shift a Fixed Mindset into a Growth Mindset. In her research, Stanford psychologist, Carol Dweck has found that in any given area of our lives, we can have either a fixed or a growth mindset. A fixed mindset will make success difficult because you believe you either have the ability to complete a goal or you don’t. Shifting to a growth mindset will have you believing you can improve in any area with effort and practice.
- Focus on the Journey. People often spend too much time obsessing over how much work is still needed to complete a goal, which makes them more prone to giving up. However, Dr. Patricia Thompson explains that if you focus on the things you’re learning, things you’re grateful for, or the ways in which you’re developing, then you will be motivated and happy throughout the entire journey of completing a goal.
- Move Towards Your Goal, Not Away From Your Weakness. This is probably the most important, and often overlooked, mindset shift. The best example of this is with weight loss goals. Don’t set a goal to lose weight because you hate your body. You’ll end up overlooking small wins and you will feel discouraged throughout the entire journey. Instead, set a goal to genuinely improve your lifestyle and live the best life you can. The first goal uses valuable mental energy on self-criticism, whereas the second goal uses mental energy on inspiration and pride. This slight change will drastically improve your happiness and will help you reach your goal.
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