The science of mindset
The science of mindset is a relatively new field of research, but it has already yielded some fascinating insights. One of the most important findings is that our mindset can profoundly impact our success in life. People with a growth mindset believe that their intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and practice. They are more likely to set challenging goals, persist in the face of setbacks, and ultimately achieve their goals. People with a fixed mindset, on the other hand, believe that their intelligence and abilities are fixed traits. They are less likely to set challenging goals, give up easily when faced with setbacks, and ultimately achieve their goals.
Another important finding is that our mindset can be changed. In one study, students who were taught about the benefits of a growth mindset showed significant improvements in their academic performance. This suggests that we all benefit from adopting a growth mindset.
If you want to change your mindset, you can do a few things. First, start by becoming aware of your current mindset. Are you more of a growth mindset or a fixed mindset person? Once you know your mindset, you can start to challenge it. For example, if you have a fixed mindset, try setting a challenging goal for yourself and see how far you can go. Or, if you have a growth mindset, try to see things from a different perspective. For example, if you make a mistake, try to see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
I believe in the concept of an Awakened Mindset. To me, this means making three changes in your life that move you forward toward growth. Once you no longer want to stay stuck in the life you’ve been living, you can use that to fuel you to move toward transformation.
Change your thoughts
Changer you words
Change your mind
Let me expound on this a bit more so it makes sense.
“Where focus goes, energy flows.”
Change your thoughts:
You can begin by keeping track of what you are thinking. Start paying attention to what you are saying to yourself inside your head and if it’s positive and leading you forward to your dreams or if it's negative and keeping you stuck or spiraling towards dread.
This can be done by journaling, keeping a list and
tracking your thoughts, or doing a body scan to see how you feel when in a new situation or environment.
Next, you can start by using the 5-Second Rule taught by Mel Robbins. This is where you countdown from five and launch into action. So if you’re on a negative loop, countdown “5, 4, 3, 2, 1 - GO!” and see if it will help you jumpstart more positive thinking.
Another tool is the breath. When you are stuck on the maddening merry-go-round of thoughts, you can pause and create calm with your breath. Envision a square. As you inhale for the count of four, imagine going up one side of the square. Then hold your breath in for a count of four on the top of the square. Next, exhale out on a count of four going down the other side of the square. Finally, hold your breath at the bottom of the square for four counts. Do this four times and replace your negative thoughts with positive ones.
Think of putting up a boundary between you and these thought invaders!
“Words have power and they become things.”
Change your words:
Your words shape your life. It starts with your thoughts. If you don’t pay attention to what you are thinking and being more purposeful, those words will slip out of your mouth and cause your harm. It becomes a chain that binds you to the life
that no longer serves you.
According to goop.com’s article, The Scary Power of Negative Words, they wrote “Words have power. Their meaning crystallizes perceptions that shape our beliefs, drive our behavior, and, ultimately, create our world. Their power arises from our emotional responses when we read, speak, or hear them. Just say the word “fire” while barbequing, or in the workplace, or in a crowded theater, and you’ll get three completely different but powerful emotional and energetic reactions.”
When you have mastered or at least become aware of your thoughts, your words will become more affirming and life-giving.
Here are some words to intentionally use when speaking about or to yourself:
I am confident and comfortable in my own skin
I'm so grateful for all of the adventures I experience daily
I have released my attachment to the desires of the ego
I am the best version of myself
I welcome opportunities to learn and grow
I'm so grateful for my healthy and strong body
I love that my talents bring me success and joy
Change your mind:
Changing your mind starts with deliberate and specific actions. It is most successful and long-lasting when first coupled with Soothing Surroundings. Cleaning your body, mind, and spirit will declutter your life allowing new things to flow in and take root.
Creating lasting transformation starts with learning how to manage your thoughts. Then you must remember your words create your life. Finally, you have to step outside of your comfort zones and take action to have the life you desire. It is new so it will be challenging, but it can be done!
When you don’t know the answers or when you rely on others for truths, you get more frustrated and confused. You make decisions poorly and without thought. You wait to decide after asking several people their opinions and trust them more than your own judgment. You make excuses for not knowing and hiding behind excuses.
When you learn to use trusted resources to build your bank of knowledge, this will lead you to making informed decisions and regaining your power.
Changing your mindset is not easy, but it is possible. And it can have a profound impact on your success in life.
Here are some additional resources on the science of mindset:
Carol Dweck's book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
Carol Dweck’s TED Talk, Developing a Growth Mindset
Carol Dweck: A Summary of Growth and Fixed Mindsets
Check out the Daybreak Yoga LLC Amazon affiliate store for our Mindset Makeover book list.
