Growing our mind

What is a mind set?

We are looking at mindset today. We are discussing about how we can make sure our 'mindset' is in not 'set' or fixed but is open. We want it open so we can, learn, grow and improve our lives.

A mindset is a set of assumptions, methods or notions held by one or more people or groups of people . A mindset can arise out of a person's worldview or philosophy of life

and the beliefs people hold about the nature of life.

The two possible states of our mind

We can have a fixed mindset or a growth mindset.

Essentially we all want to move to pleasure as we perceive this is a better state to be in. However, we cannot always see the way to get there. We cannot get there in a fixed state, as we need to be open to seeing things in a different way.

I used to have a much more fixed mindset. I believe now that this was so that I had certainty and knew how the world worked so nothing would surprise me. Now it has opened I can learn and grow more.

Fixed Mindset - We can become fixed on our one way, view or interpretation but can be totally unaware of this. We have decided that what we know and what we believe IS the truth. However it is only OUR truth - we build our own truth based on our experiences. Our experiences are different to everyone else's, therefore it stands to reason that our truth can be different. It is not necessarily the universal truth and what's more, truth is subject to change.

When it is fixed, the mind is not available to look at alternatives. Sometimes this is a good thing - for example when following rules and laws. It helps us realise that sometimes we need to take care of certain responsibilities, even if we don't want to do them. It can help us with fitting into the world and the ways of society. 

There are disadvantages of a fixed mindset too however - it can promote dissatisfaction and disappointment. It can decrease self knowledge and self awareness and cut off opportunities. Therefore it can be said that people living in a mostly fixed mindset are encouraging mediocrity and attracting mediocre relationships that will hardly bring long term satisfaction because it leads to stagnation.

Growth mindset - the view that we can change ourselves and the world around us. This doesn't mean that we believe anyone can become anything they want with enough education and effort. Its about one's possible potential. Of course we never really know our potential - how far a person can go (if they try, and set their mind to it). It's about having a belief that the effort that goes into the learning and developing your understanding and talents is well worth the toil and trouble. 

Answer these questions - to check your views (are they open or closed)

1. People have a certain amount of intelligence and there isn't any way to change it

2. No matter who you are there isn't much you can do to improve your basic abilities

and personality

3. People are capable of changing who they are

4. You can learn new things and improve your intelligence

5. People either have particular talents or they don't. You can't just acquire talent for

things like music writing athletics

6. Studying, working hard and practising new skills are all ways to develop new talents

and abilities.

Can you work out which you are - which of these questions show an open mind and which show a closed mind.

Summary

We may have rather set views and opinions. This can prevent us learning and growing and lead to mediocrity. Most of us are aiming for pleasure and happiness in life and growing is a part of this. When you become more open this becomes more possible.