EXP 105 Week 4 Discussion Forum 2

Growth Mindset

“I already know everything I need to know” is a fixed mindset statement that describes
my attitude when preparing for an exam or a test. I usually like preparing early in advance. I am
not a “last-minute” person. Thus, even if I remember an area that I did not read thoroughly
enough and the exam is almost due, I usually do not revisit it. I always comfort myself that I
“already know everything” and thus do not need to read more. Sometimes the mindset works to
my advantage, but I remember one time when I was doing a certification test. I remembered that
I had not totally understood a certain area. However, I told myself that I knew enough already
and would still do well in the test. It did not go well as I failed that test and had to pay again and
set a new date for the test. I had many regrets as to why I never revisited the topic, but anyway, it
had already happened, and I paid dearly for it.
One of the strategies that I would have applied is “use the word ‘yet.’” I should have told
myself: I do not know everything I need to know yet” (TeachThought Staff, 2019). This would
have pushed me to go back and read more on the topic. Had I done that, I would have passed the
test the first time. I would have saved my money and time because I sat for the same certification
test twice. Secondly, another way I would have managed to change the outcome is to “think
realistically about time and effort” (TeachThought Staff, 2019). Everything takes time.
Therefore, I should have taken the time to revisit the topic and ensure that I am well-prepared for
the test. Had I done so, I would have saved time and effort. Besides, I should have told myself
that it was still alright, even though I had not mastered everything that was needed to pass the
test. Since there was still little time left, I should have used it to get thoroughly prepared. The

article, 25 Simple Ways to Develop a Growth Mindset, explains different ways to develop a
growth mindset, and has shaped my beliefs significantly.
It is important to have a growth mindset and grit towards achieving goals. Cultivating grit
gives an individual an extra bit of determination. It becomes possible to achieve more because
approval is internal, not external. One does not have to wait until their actions or thoughts are
approved by others. Besides, having a growth mindset implies that an individual is in control of
their abilities and consequently their success. Such a mindset instils one with an underlying
belief that he or she is in control of their destiny. While hard work, persistence, and effort are
critical in achieving success, of utmost importance is having a growth mindset. Having a growth
mindset and grit towards personal development and achievement is a key ingredient in the
attainment of success. It gives one an inward ability to continue pushing, break the barriers, and
move on without giving up until success is achieved.

References

’’TeachThought Staff. (2019, December 2). 25 simple ways to develop a growth mindset (Links
to an external site.). TeachThought. https://www.teachthought.com/learning/25-simple-
ways-develop-growth-mindset/