Depressed, Stressed, and Grade-Obsessed? 10 Simple Strategies to Promote a Growth Mindset

Described as “stressed, depressed and exam-obsessed,” Gen Z worries more about academic grades than teen pregnancy or drinking!

I suggest that a growth mindset (i.e., the belief that one can improve with dedication & hard work) and having a true sense of personal agency (i.e., a sense of control over actions & outcomes) is key to helping young people gain perspective. It seems pretty obvious that people with in a fixed mindset (i.e., the belief that abilities are fixed & can’t be changed) and who feel little control over their outcomes will struggle to maintain positive mental health. So, what can you do to promote a growth mindset and personal agency?

10 Simple Strategies to Promote a Growth Mindset & Personal Agency

• ONE: Acknowledge effort and learning over “raw” talent.
• TWO: Use the word, “yet” after the word “can’t.” Believe in the potential to overcome challenges. At some point, nobody could solve 2+2. Imagine what would happen if we gave up then!
• THREE: Value challenge and acknowledge perseverance.
• FOUR: Don’t avoid complex or abstract concepts. Instead, confront them and push yourself.
• FIVE: Set goals— e.g., completing homework every day—and make a plan to reach them.
• SIX: Become the master of your own learning by asking for help and making use of all available resources.
• SEVEN: Clear out the mind trash. Make sure you are not bombarding yourself with negative self-talk.
• EIGHT: Get organized. Clearing out your personal space may help declutter your mind.
• NINE:  Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you.
• TEN: Know your values and make you sure you are living by them. 

I know my growth mindset has served me well in all that I do: where some see no point and wasted effort, I see opportunity. While some shut down when faced with obstacles, I get creative, believing that most can be overcome.

Can everything be overcome? Of course not. But a lot can!

To learn how to cultivate a growth mindset, reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com

For more information on the benefits of a growth mindset, watch Carol Dweck’s Ted Talk The Power of Believing that You Can Improve.