Fixed vs. Growth Mindset Worksheet

Instructions: Read each statement below. Decide if it reflects a Fixed Mindset (F) or a Growth Mindset (G). Write 'F' or 'G' in the space provided.

1. "I'm just not good at math."
   
   
   
2. "I made a mistake, but I can learn from it and try again."
   
   
   
3. "Why bother studying? I'm either smart or I'm not."
   
   
   
4. "I love a challenge; it helps me get better."
   
   
   
5. "If I have to put in effort, it means I'm not talented."
   
   
   
6. "I ask for feedback so I can improve."
   
   
   
7. "Her success makes me feel bad about my own abilities."
   
   
   
8. "I can improve my skills with practice and persistence."
   
   
   
9. "I avoid things that are too hard because I don't want to fail."
   
   
   
10. "When things get tough, I work harder and look for new strategies."
    
    
    

Reflection Questions:

1. Which mindset do you find yourself in most often? Why do you think that is?
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Can you recall a time when you had a fixed mindset about something? What happened?
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Can you recall a time when you had a growth mindset about something? What was the outcome?
   
   
   
   
   
   

The Power of "Yet"

Think about a time you tried something new and it felt impossible. Maybe it was a difficult math problem, learning a new sport, or mastering a musical instrument. What was your immediate reaction? Did you think, "I can't do this" and want to give up? Or did you think, "I can't do this yet"?

That one little word, "yet," can make a monumental difference. It's a cornerstone of the growth mindset. When we say "I can't do this yet," we are acknowledging that our current abilities might not be enough, but we are also expressing belief in our potential to grow and learn.

Shifting Your Perspective

Consider the difference:

• Fixed Mindset: "I'm terrible at public speaking." This statement closes the door to improvement. It declares a permanent state.
• Growth Mindset: "I'm terrible at public speaking yet." This statement opens the door. It implies that with practice, learning, and effort, public speaking is a skill that can be developed.

The word "yet" is a powerful tool because it reframes failure or difficulty not as a roadblock, but as a temporary stop on the path to mastery. It encourages persistence, resilience, and a willingness to embrace challenges. It reminds us that learning is a journey, not a destination.

How to Use the Power of "Yet"

1. Identify Fixed Mindset Thoughts: When you catch yourself thinking "I can't" or "I'm not good enough," pause.
2. Add "Yet": Consciously append the word "yet" to that thought. "I can't understand this problem yet." "I haven't mastered this skill yet."
3. Plan for Growth: Once you add "yet," it naturally leads to the next step: "What can I do to get there?" This might involve seeking help, trying a new strategy, or practicing more.

Embracing "yet" isn't about ignoring current difficulties; it's about acknowledging them while maintaining an optimistic outlook on your potential for improvement. It transforms challenges into exciting opportunities for growth and personal development. So, the next time you face a hurdle, remember the power of one small word: yet.

Cultivating Your Growth Mindset: An Application Activity

Objective: To apply growth mindset principles to a personal challenge or goal.

Instructions:

1. Identify a Challenge or Goal (5 minutes): Think about something you are currently working on, a skill you want to develop, or a challenge you are facing. It could be academic, professional, personal, or a hobby. Write it down below.

   My Challenge/Goal:
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Describe Your Current Mindset (5 minutes): How do you currently feel about this challenge or goal? Are there any fixed mindset thoughts creeping in (e.g., "I'm not good enough," "This is too hard")? Be honest with yourself.

   My Current Mindset/Thoughts:
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Apply the "Power of Yet" (10 minutes): How can you reframe your current mindset using the "power of yet"? Rewrite your fixed mindset statements into growth mindset statements.

   Using "Yet":
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Brainstorm Growth Strategies (15 minutes): What specific actions can you take to approach this challenge or goal with a growth mindset? Think about:

   • What new strategies can you try?
   • Who can you ask for help or feedback?
   • How will you learn from mistakes or setbacks?
   • What effort will you put in?

   My Growth Strategies:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

5. Share and Discuss (Optional, 10 minutes): If comfortable, share your challenge, your reframed mindset, and your strategies with a small group or the class. Listen to others' ideas and offer constructive feedback.

Growth Mindset Cool Down

Instructions: Please answer the following questions to reflect on today's lesson.

1. What is one key difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset?
   
   
   
2. Think about a challenge you are currently facing. How can you apply the "power of yet" to this challenge?
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. What is one thing you will try to do differently this week to cultivate a more growth-oriented mindset?