There are a lot of elements which differentiate a fixed from a growth mindset. You can find intricate schemes to highlight different characteristics and how people act based on their mindset. But if you want to reduce it to the most basic elements, the real difference is your view on the world and yourself.
A person with a fixed mindset believes in static attributes (IQ, EQ, strength, speed) and inherited abilities or skills. This leads to “I’m not good at math” or “I’m not talented enough to play basketball at pro level”. On the other hand, a person with a growth mindset believes he can always improve everything from his intelligence, to physical abilities, and skills.
I am not that good… yet.
I am not that smart… yet.
I am not that strong… yet.
I don’t know it… yet.
I don’t have the necessary skills… yet.
I can’t do it… yet.
Yet is an extremely important word that can change your entire mindset when approaching a difficult situation. Just by adding this single word into your daily vocabulary you can program yourself to make a small change into moving from a fixed to a growth mindset.
It’s up to you if you choose to get stuck into believing that it’s nature’s fault that you’re not good enough or take responsibility and put in the necessary work in order to achieve what you want.