From fixed mindset to growth mindset: the complete guide to learning how to learn

From fixed mindset to growth mindset: the complete guide to learning how to learn

In her seminal book Mindset, American psychologist Carol Dweck explains the two main mindsets we have when approaching new challenges—or even life in general. Fixed mindset — “In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits. Growth mindset — “In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.”

The idea is that what is commonly called intelligence can be “grown” incrementally by means of hard work, positivity, resilience, and training, and that people can be placed on a continuum according to their implicit views of where their abilities come from. Contrary to what many people think, the adult brain is not “hard-wired” with fixed neuronal circuits. It’s actually very plastic. Neuroplasticity can be defined as the ability of the brain to change continuously throughout your life. It means your brain keeps on changing, adapting, and forming new connections even as you grow older. More importantly, it means your cognitive abilities are not fixed.

Before we explore ways to foster a growth mindset, it’s crucial to be able to spot your own fixed mindset triggers. Having to work hard. Facing setbacks. Getting negative feedback. Being challenged. Seeing success in others. “In one world, effort is a bad thing. It, like failure, means you’re not smart or talented. If you were, you wouldn’t need effort. In the other world, effort is what makes you smart or talented.” When you have a growth mindset, the hand you are dealt is just a starting point for personal growth. Remember the concept of neuroplasticity. Don’t say failing, say learning. Place growth before speed. Grow with others. Having a growth mindset is related to having an open mind. Instead of seeing your abilities, skills, knowledge, and values as fixed, you always push into the unfamiliar, to ensure you are always learning.

Now, let's delve into the topic of learning how to learn. Understanding how your brain works is essential in maximizing your learning potential. Your brain has two modes: a “focused” and “diffused” mode. The focused mode consists of sustaining your attention on one specific task, such as reading this article or solving a coding challenge. The diffused mode consists of letting your mind wander, leaving your brain to make new connections on its own. This is why we often have "shower thoughts"⁠—after intently studying a topic, the shower is a place where we usually relax, and new thoughts seem to just pop into our minds. Additionally, sleeping allows our brain to solidify new connections, get rid of toxins that build up during the day, and be ready for your next study session.

Another important aspect of learning how to learn is to forget about your learning style. A learning style can be defined as “the complex manner in which, and conditions under which, learners most efficiently and most effectively perceive, process, store, and recall what they are attempting to learn” or, alternatively, as “the preference or predisposition of an individual to perceive and process information in a particular way or combination of ways.” While most students believe that learning styles influence performance, recent research shows that there is very little evidence to support the idea that learning outcomes are best when teaching styles align with people's learning styles. Instead, what's most important is to use learning strategies that maximize your recall. Science-backed techniques include spacing out your study sessions over time, testing yourself on the material, and experiencing the content in multiple ways so you can make meaningful connections.

Lastly, when it comes to learning, just do it. Set a timer and do nothing except studying the topic at hand, and keep on focusing until the time is over. This technique, known as the Pomodoro Technique, helps you break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and prevents burnout. Learning is not a project with a beginning, a middle, and an end. You need to fall in love with the process. Trust the process and you will go from good to great.

In conclusion, transitioning from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset is essential for personal growth and learning how to learn effectively. Understanding the concept of neuroplasticity and embracing the idea that your cognitive abilities are not fixed allows you to approach challenges with a sense of resilience and a love for learning. Additionally, incorporating techniques such as utilizing focused and diffused modes of thinking, forgetting about learning styles, and implementing the Pomodoro Technique can greatly enhance your learning experience. So, embrace the growth mindset, trust the process, and watch yourself thrive in your learning journey.