The Genius of the Growth Mindset
Going through what Professor Dweck had to say really hit home with me because I saw myself in those fixed-mindset kids. I grew up convinced that a 4.0 was everything, that anything less meant I wasn't nearly as smart as I thought I was. Even low As on tests were questioned by my parents and myself. Bs were a personal failure. But, to my contentment, I made it out of high school with my 4.0 thinking I was invincible and that college would be the same way.
My first semester here, I saw my first B AND C. I was devastated. According to my dad, I'd shot my goal 4.0 in the foot. I'd already failed, and I wasn't even a year in. I saw my first panic attacks, I became stressed out for the first time in my life, and my pride in my intellect came to a screeching halt. I convinced myself that I'd demolished any chances of me succeeding in college.
I had never heard of what Professor Dweck had to say until today, but I wish I had known about her back then, because freshman me could've really used some wisdom like that. As time passed, I allowed myself to come to a similar conclusion, that some things will just take me longer to learn, that I had room to grow, that I hadn't failed myself. It's a wonderful mindset, and something I think the overworked school children of today could really use. So many of us were plagued by the thought that once we didn't understand, we failed, and I think implementing some of the challenges would be beneficial not only to those who struggle, but those who already have this mindset.
For me personally, it's so nice to hear someone with a background in scientific study bring up subjects like this and offer great insight on how to improve. I hope to keep this study in mind as I continue my college education and really focus on truly learning. The grades will come with the desire to learn. I even came up with my own (kind of lame) motivational acronym!
Sometimes Mistakes Are Successful Happenings
(SMASH)
Okay, yeah, it's REALLY lame, but I think the message gets across.
A word bubble of the word "yet;" Image creator unknown.
Source: redefineschool.com
My first semester here, I saw my first B AND C. I was devastated. According to my dad, I'd shot my goal 4.0 in the foot. I'd already failed, and I wasn't even a year in. I saw my first panic attacks, I became stressed out for the first time in my life, and my pride in my intellect came to a screeching halt. I convinced myself that I'd demolished any chances of me succeeding in college.
I had never heard of what Professor Dweck had to say until today, but I wish I had known about her back then, because freshman me could've really used some wisdom like that. As time passed, I allowed myself to come to a similar conclusion, that some things will just take me longer to learn, that I had room to grow, that I hadn't failed myself. It's a wonderful mindset, and something I think the overworked school children of today could really use. So many of us were plagued by the thought that once we didn't understand, we failed, and I think implementing some of the challenges would be beneficial not only to those who struggle, but those who already have this mindset.
For me personally, it's so nice to hear someone with a background in scientific study bring up subjects like this and offer great insight on how to improve. I hope to keep this study in mind as I continue my college education and really focus on truly learning. The grades will come with the desire to learn. I even came up with my own (kind of lame) motivational acronym!
Sometimes Mistakes Are Successful Happenings
(SMASH)
Okay, yeah, it's REALLY lame, but I think the message gets across.
A word bubble of the word "yet;" Image creator unknown.
Source: redefineschool.com
Hi Haley! I was just browsing through some blogs at random this morning with my coffee, and I am so glad the randomizer showed me your blog: I love this acronym! I don't think it's lame at all. It's funny AND memorable. If you get a chance sometime, you should do one of those extra credit things (there's an acronym one!) and find a "smash" image to go with the SMASH. I think it's wonderful! :-)
ReplyDeleteHi Haley,
ReplyDeleteIt was interesting to get a little personal insight into your life. I feel the idea of coming out of high school thinking that college will be a breeze is a commonly held one. I am glad that you were able to combat these feelings as they do not add anything good to your life. Hope you have a good second half of the semester!
Haley,
ReplyDeleteI love doing the growth mindset posts for my extra credit assignments! I see this is your only one, but I highly suggest completing more of them. Not only are they an awesome grade booster, but they are so interesting. I am glad that you got a lot out of completing this assignment!