I work with high growth companies and growth focused leaders. Daily I get to experience people that, in spite of setbacks, inspire me with their resiliency. There is a name for it this – growth mindset. In her book Mindset, Carol Dweck shares her research and belief that there are growth and fixed mindset individuals.
We all know these people:
- Growth mindset people believe in their ability to learn and figure out almost anything.
- Fixed mindset people are quick to point out ‘why not’ when faced with a challenge – and keep that voice throughout the work.
- Growth mindset people have a mechanism to adapt when situations require them to make a personal change.
- Fixed mindset people lead and/or end with That is the way I am.
- Growth mindset people are quick to set aside their EGO, and ask a question.
- Fixed mindset people are quick to protect their EGO, and make a statement.
- Growth mindset people have feelings and get butterflies, they just don’t hide behind them or allow them to define their next step.
Which one do you see or hear in yourself? Which do you see most prominently on your team?
Entrepreneurial spirit is a trait that is desired by both Fortune 100 and Inc. 5000 companies. The powerful thing about this distinction is that it’s quickly displayed when the work starts.
It is one reason why a company in Ann Arbor called Menlo Innovations does a test in an interview where two people have to solve a problem with on pencil and one piece of paper. It is why a strategic planning process I use (EOS) has direct feedback from your teammates in day 1 around whether you Get It, Want It, and have the Capacity to do the job the organization needs you to do. It is the reason selection for a growth company first asks the question – Right Person? The Right Seat will show up eventually if it is not there already.
I have a formula in my book that urges people in the midst of change to manage their mental state so Hope > Fear + Anger + Frustration + Worry + Hunger + Weariness + ______ + _______. NOBODY is always in balance – but I have watched growth mindset people bounce back time after time from tough situations where they were clearly in a Hope < Fear + Anger + etc. situation.
As you end your week – how is your formula looking? Which label are you living into? How can you support a shift in someone around you?
