Growth Mindset

As coaches, we're all about helping our clients achieve their goals and develop new skills. But sometimes, we come across clients who are afraid of failure, plagued with self-doubt, or limited by their beliefs. That's where a growth mindset comes in handy. It's like a superpower that enables clients to take on challenges with enthusiasm, curiosity, and determination.

Now, you might be wondering what exactly is a growth mindset. Simply put, it's the belief that our abilities can be developed through effort and practice. It's the opposite of a fixed mindset that assumes our talents are predetermined and unchangeable. With a growth mindset, clients can approach obstacles and setbacks with resilience, knowing that every experience offers an opportunity for growth and learning.

So how can we as coaches help our clients develop this superpower? Here are a few strategies:

Firstly, let's reframe failure. Instead of seeing it as a personal defeat, let's see it as a valuable lesson in disguise. Like that one time you tried to make a cake from scratch and it ended up as a flat, sad pancake. Hey, at least you know what not to do next time!

Next up, let's focus on effort. Because let's face it, no one's an overnight success. It takes hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of grit to achieve greatness. So let's celebrate every step of the way, even the baby ones!

Thirdly, let's encourage curiosity. Remember when you were a kid and everything was a new adventure waiting to be explored? Let's tap into that spirit of wonder and embrace the unknown. Who knows what discoveries await?

Last but not least, let's practice positive self-talk. Our inner voice can be our biggest cheerleader or our worst critic. Let's choose the former and fuel ourselves with encouragement and motivation. You've got this, champ!

So there you have it, folks. A growth mindset is like a secret weapon that can unlock untold potential. With a little help from us coaches, our clients can harness this power and achieve their wildest dreams. Let's go team!

Let us know your thoughts on this article and share any additional topics you’d like to see in upcoming editions.  

Submitted by,

Rasheeda Coston, Director of Coaching (rascos@pakeys.org)

Barb Willier, Coaching Coordinator  (barwil@pakeys.org)   

The Pennsylvania Key