A growth mindset can greatly benefit students in the goal-setting process. Here’s how:
1. Embracing challenges: A growth mindset encourages students to embrace challenges rather than avoid them. They see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. When setting goals, encourage students to choose ambitious and challenging goals because if they know you believe in them their confidence is increased. What you believe about young people matters.
2. Persistence and resilience: Students with a growth mindset understand that setbacks and failures are a natural part of the learning process. Viewing setbacks as temporary learning opportunities improves effort and perseverance. This mindset builds resilient and motivated young people with the grit to see obstacles as opportunities.
3. Effort as a pathway to success: Students with a growth mindset understand that effort is essential for growth and success. Believing that their abilities are developed through hard work and dedication keeps them striving for excellence. When they think they have reached their goal, let them know they will have to work harder. Focusing on effort encourages youth to take the necessary steps to reach their goals.
4. Embracing feedback: Students with a growth mindset are open to receiving feedback and see it as an opportunity for improvement. Understanding that feedback from trusted adults and mentors guides them toward with strategies to achieve their goals.
Healthy Futures Nu-CULTURE supports the development of a growth mindset for students to approach goal setting with a positive and proactive attitude. Empowering youth to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, put in effort, seek feedback, and learn from mistakes. By cultivating a growth mindset, students develop the resilience, motivation, and skills needed to effectively set and achieve their goals.