Not just black or white – how fixed and growth mindset coexist
Blog 2 of the series: unlocking potential with a growth mindset
In my last post, I introduced the idea of a growth mindset – the belief that skills and intelligence can be developed.
But here’s something that often gets left out:
We all carry both a growth mindset and a fixed mindset.
And that’s not a flaw. That’s human.
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What fixed and growth mindset really look like in daily life
Psychologist Carol Dweck introduced the idea of growth mindset in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. It’s become a popular framework in education, business, and leadership – but sometimes it gets simplified too much.
Dweck doesn’t say we’re either growth-minded or not.
She shows how mindset is contextual.
You might feel open and confident in one area (like learning a new tool), but deeply self-critical in another (like speaking up in meetings).
The fixed mindset voice might say:
“I’ll never be good at this.”
“If I fail, they’ll see I’m not capable.”
“Better not to try than to look stupid.”
We all have those moments. The point isn’t to silence them – but to get curious about them.
When a fixed mindset is trying to protect you
Fixed mindset thinking often comes from past experiences. Maybe you were criticised harshly once. Or you grew up believing mistakes weren’t safe. Or you’re in a work culture where vulnerability isn’t encouraged.
That inner voice is trying to keep you safe – from embarrassment, rejection, uncertainty.
It’s not bad. It just needs a little support.
You don’t have to be certain – just open
One passage in Dweck’s book struck me:
“No matter what your ability is, effort is what ignites that ability and turns it into accomplishment.”
It reminded me: mindset isn’t about being fearless.
It’s about staying open – even when you’re not sure you can do it yet.
Questions for reflection
You don’t need to force a mindset shift. Start by noticing.
Where do you feel curious and open to learning?
Where do you feel stuck or afraid of judgment?
What’s your inner voice telling you – and what might it be protecting you from?
What would change if you gave yourself more permission to try, not just perform?
Final thought
Mindset isn’t a fixed label – it’s a moment-to-moment awareness. The more we notice our own patterns with kindness, the more room we create for learning, for ourselves and for others.
No need to be perfect ;-) - just stay open.
Next up: how leaders can build a growth mindset culture in their teams – with small, daily actions.** how leaders can build a growth mindset culture in their teams – with small, daily actions.