How to Change Your Mindset for Growth: 15 Proven Ways (2023)

Ever felt like you’re on a hamster wheel, stuck in the same old thoughts and patterns? Hey, you’re not alone! I’ve been there, stuck in a mental rut, and let me tell you—it’s about as fun as stepping on Lego. But the good news is, we’re about to take a wild ride together. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to change your mindset from “I can’t” to “Heck, why not?”

Ready to break free from the hamster wheel and start seeing life differently, from a brighter perspective?

Recognizing Your Current Mindset

Types of Mindsets: Fixed vs. Growth

Is your mindset as rigid as concrete, or is it as flexible as a yoga instructor? When it comes to mindsets, there are generally two types: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset.

With a fixed mindset, I believe my intelligence and talents are predetermined, and there’s not much I can do to change them. “I’m just bad at math, there’s no hope for me!” On the flip side, having a growth mindset means I believe I can grow, learn, and develop my skills with effort and dedication. “I may not be a math whiz, but with some practice, I can definitely improve!”

Identifying Symptoms of a Fixed Mindset

Now that we know the difference between fixed and growth mindsets, how can I tell if I’m stuck in a fixed mindset? Some symptoms may include:

If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry! We all experience moments of negative thinking, but recognizing it is the first step toward changing your mindset.

The Effects of a Fixed Mindset on Personal Growth

Having a fixed mindset can be quite an obstacle in your personal growth journey. It’s like running a marathon with a backpack full of rocks – it slows you down and makes it harder to reach your goals.

With a fixed mindset, you might:

So, recognizing your current mindset is the to confidence and making the switch from fixed to growth mode.

The Power of a Positive, Growth-Oriented Mindset

This brings me to the growth, aka the positive mindset. It’s like a magical unicorn that brings success, happiness, and personal development to anyone who embraces it. So, let me walk you through this fantastic world where problems turn into opportunities, and failures become valuable lessons.

Benefits of a Growth Mindset

Honestly, having a growth mindset is like having a superpower. It turns any dull moment into an exhilarating adventure of self-improvement. Let me tell you about just some of the awesome benefits that come with this mindset:

• Increased motivation: With a growth mindset, you are constantly in the mood to learn, improve, and conquer! Nothing stops me from striving to be my best self.
• Resilience: Your capacity to bounce back from failures and setbacks becomes as powerful as the bounciest bouncy ball in the world! you learn to grow and adapt like a champ.
• Emotional well-being: Trust me, having a growth mindset helps you maintain a positive attitude in life. Your mental health gets a power-up that rivals any super mushroom in a video game!

How a Growth Mindset Enhances Your Life

Now I can hear you thinking: “That’s all great but are there any real-life applications of a growth mindset”

Well, yes! Buckle up, because this is how embracing this mindset can change your life, just like it did mine.

Personal growth: Imagine being an unstoppable force of self-improvement. That’s me with a growth mindset. Every challenge you face becomes an opportunity to learn, grow, and ultimately win. It’s like living in a choose-your-own-adventure book!

Career success: In the professional world, you are like a chameleon. A growth mindset lets you adapt and excel no matter what curveballs are thrown your way. you become a magnet for new opportunities and promotions as you continually improve your skills, learn from mistakes, and find better ways of doing things. Who wouldn’t want that?

Relationships: A growth mindset can spice up your relationships like no other seasoning. You learn how to communicate better, become more empathetic, and overall, enjoy deeper connections with the people around you. It’s like a secret ingredient that makes everything taste just a little bit sweeter.

15 Ways to Change Your Mindset

Now that I got you hooked, I am going to tell you exactly how to change your mindset from fixed to growth.

These aren’t your average: “Go find yourself a mentor” I did some serious research and asked multiple experts just to get you the best of the best.

1. Listen to empowering podcasts

Podcasts can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. By listening to empowering voices, you can gain a fresh perspective on life and learn new ways to improve your mindset. Some of my favorite podcasts include “The School of Greatness” by Lewis Howes and “The Mindset Mentor” by Rob Dial.

These podcasts feature interviews with successful people who share their stories and insights on how they achieved their goals. They also provide practical tips and strategies that fix negative mindsets and increase your mental health.

Just take our Menprovement Podcasts for example. Each on of them is full of personal growth and nuggets of wisdom.

2. Develop an intentional morning routine

Starting your day with intention can set the tone for the rest of your day. I recommend activities like meditation, exercise, and motivational reading which can help you feel more focused and energized.

For example, you could wake up 30 minutes earlier and spend that time doing yoga, journaling, or reading a personal development book. This can help you feel more centered and ready to take on the day.

3. Set your priorities

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the number of tasks we need to complete each day. To avoid feeling stressed and anxious, it’s important to prioritize your tasks. Identify your top three priorities for the day and focus on completing those first. This will help you feel more productive and in control of your day.

4. Create a beautiful things list

Focusing on the beauty around us can help us feel more positive and grateful. Creating a list of small, beautiful things in your life can help you appreciate the little things that bring you joy.

For example, you could write down things like a beautiful sunset, a kind gesture from a friend, or a delicious meal you enjoyed.

5. Re-adopt a hobby you loved as a kid

Revisiting a hobby you loved as a child can help you reconnect with your inner child and feel more joyful. Whether it’s finger painting, playing an instrument, or playing a sport, engaging in activities you enjoy can help you feel more relaxed and happy.

You can also try to reconnect with old friends and school buddies. As long as they are positive people, it will definitely benefit your own life.

6. Journal to improve your mindset

Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and developing a new mindset. By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your emotions. You can also use journaling to set goals, track your progress, and express gratitude.

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7. Write a list of the things you’re grateful for

Gratitude is a powerful mindset shift that can help us feel more positive and content. By focusing on the things we’re grateful for, we can shift our attention away from negative thoughts and feelings. Writing a daily gratitude list can help you cultivate a more grateful mindset.

Let’s do a fun challenge

Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. They can be big or small, and they can be anything from a good cup of coffee to a meaningful conversation with a loved one. At the end of each week, read through your notes.

This will help you understand that small things matter in life and will change your mindset to be more grateful.

8. Improve the way you speak to yourself

The way we speak to ourselves can have a big impact on our mindset. Negative self-talk can lead to feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem. To improve the way you speak to yourself, try practicing self-compassion and positive affirmations. When you notice negative thoughts creeping in, challenge them with positive affirmations like “I am capable” or “I am worthy.”

I learned the hard way that speaking harshly to myself does more harm than good. Now, I practice speaking kindly and encouragingly to myself. It makes a world of difference.

9. Challenge negative self-talk

One particular incident comes to mind when speaking about negative self-talk. A few weeks ago, I was preparing for a significant presentation, and my mind was flooded with limiting beliefs.

Thoughts like, “You’re not good enough” and “You’re going to mess up” kept creeping in. So, I decided to dig deep and question those thoughts. For each negative thought, I asked myself, “Is this true, or is it just my fear speaking?” It wasn’t easy, but with some self-discovery, I realized that those thoughts were baseless.

They were just fears, not facts. This exercise helped me break free from my negative self-talk and boost my confidence like a rocket.

10. Get an outside perspective to change your mindset

When I transitioned from fitness to online marketing and blogging, I was filled with limiting beliefs and doubts. Seeking advice from my mentors and friends who had experienced similar situations provided me with a fresh perspective. Their experiences helped me view my situation through a different lens, and I realized how my fears were holding me back.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to people you trust when you’re stuck in a negative mindset. Their perspectives can provide invaluable insights and help you see things from a new angle, aiding in shifting your mindset.

11. Keep a box or folder of encouraging words

Collecting compliments and kind words from others can be a powerful way to boost your self-esteem and remind yourself of your strengths. Keep a box or folder of encouraging words, whether they’re from friends, family members, or coworkers. When you’re feeling down or struggling with self-doubt, take a look at these uplifting messages to remind yourself of your worth and biggest accomplishments.

12. Go outside more often

Spending time in nature can have a calming and rejuvenating effect on our minds and bodies. Whether it’s going for a walk in the park or sitting outside in the sunshine, spending time outdoors can help us feel more relaxed and centered. Research has shown that spending time in nature can also improve our mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

13. Get plenty of rest

We all need to get our Zsss. And when it comes to maintaining a positive mindset I don’t think there is anything more important than a good night of sleep.

14. Evaluate your diet

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, veggies, and whole grains has not only improved my physical health but also my mental wellness.

More on that later…

15. Declutter your life to change your mindset

I noticed my mindset improved when I started eating healthier. I replaced fast food and processed meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The change required learning new recipes, but the impact was worth it. I felt physically energized and mentally clearer. If you want to get a positive mindset, reconsider your diet – it affects both your body and mind.

How to Change Your Mindset from Negative to Positive

Let’s face it, we all need a little sunshine in our lives. Here’s my personal journey and guide to help you shift from a negative to a positive mindset.

Step 1: Practicing Gratitude

Gratitude might seem like an abstract concept, but it’s practical and straightforward. Each morning, I list three things I’m grateful for in my journal. For instance, I once wrote, “I am grateful for my health, the coffee I’m enjoying, and the support of my friends.” This activity kick-starts my day with a focus on the positives in my life.

Step 2: Replace Negative Thoughts with Positive Affirmations

When a negative thought creeps into my mind, I consciously replace it with a positive mindset. For example, if I find myself thinking, “I can’t do this,” I pause and replace it with, “I can learn and improve.” It might feel awkward at first, but your mind will gradually get used to these uplifting pep talks,

Step 3: Add a Touch of Humor

Humor is a powerful antidote to negativity. I try to watch a funny video or read a humorous book every day. For example, after a stressful day at work, I unwind by watching episodes of my favorite comedy show. (which is Family Guy of course) This habit helps to dissolve stress and invites positivity into my life.

Step 4: Declutter and Create a Positive Environment

Lastly, I change my living environment to something that just shines positivity. I started by throwing away all the BS and keeping only stuff that actually bring positivity to my living room. I then add plants for a touch of nature, posted uplifting quotes on my mirror, and placed pictures of nights out with friends around. This created a space that boosts my mood and fosters positivity.

How to Change Your Mindset About Food

You know, when it comes to food, we all have our love-hate relationships. One minute you’re drooling over that double cheeseburger, the next you’re cursing it for ruining your diet.

But what if I told you, it doesn’t have to be this way? That food is not the enemy, but a friend – yeah, you heard me right. Stick with me and I’ll share how I transformed my own mindset about food, and how you can too.

Step 1: It’s Not a Diet, It’s a Lifestyle

First, we have to banish that dreaded word “diet” from our vocabulary. Seriously, just erase it. “Diet” feels restrictive, like you’re punishing yourself. Instead, think of it as a lifestyle change. Sounds better, right? I started viewing food as a fuel source rather than an indulgence.

Step 2: Goodbye Guilt, Hello Moderation

Remember when I said food is not the enemy? Well, guess what? That includes chocolate too. I used to beat myself up over a bar of chocolate until I realized, it’s okay to enjoy treats in moderation. Eating a piece of cake doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it just means you’re human. And who can resist cake? Not this gal!

Step 3: Getting Friendly with Fruits and Veggies

Now here’s where the fun part begins. Fruits and veggies can be as tasty as that bag of chips if you give them a chance. You can blend them in smoothies, roast them, and even make pizza crust out of cauliflower – yes, you read that right. Who knew veggies could be so versatile?

Step 4: Get to Know Your Food

Ever read the back of a food package? It’s like a mystery novel, full of intrigue and unpronounceable words. I made it a habit to read food labels and understand what I was putting into my body. You’d be surprised at how many “healthy” foods are packed with added sugars and salts.

Step 5: Mindful Eating

And finally, eat mindfully. Instead of scarfing down my meal in front of the TV, I started paying attention to what I was eating, savoring each bite. This helped me appreciate my food more and also recognize when I was full.

Overcoming Challenges in Changing Mindset

Dealing with Self-Doubt

We’ve all dealt with the pesky voice in our head that says, “You can’t do it” or “What if you’re not good enough?” But fear not, dear reader, for there are ways to silence that nagging voice. One strategy is to acknowledge and challenge our inner critic. By facing our doubts, we can assess their validity and begin to replace them with positive self-talk.

Managing Fear of Failure

Another hurdle in our quest for a better mindset is the fear of failure. I mean, who hasn’t experienced sweaty palms and shaky legs before attempting something new? The key is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. When we shift our focus from the outcome to the process, we can more easily overcome our fears.

Combating Resistance to Change

Now, let’s face it – change is hard. Our brains are wired to cling to old habits and familiar patterns, which can make it difficult for us to adopt new ways of thinking. To break free from this resistance, we can adopt an attitude of curiosity.

Instead of shying away from new experiences, we should lean into them with an open mind. Ask ourselves, “What can I learn from this? How will it benefit me in the long run?” By fostering this inquisitive mindset, we’re more likely to embrace change and overcome the challenges that come with it.

Steve Jobs his Successful Mindset Change

Hold onto your hat, because it’s time to dive into the thrilling saga of the one and only Steve Jobs – the mastermind behind Apple, and a man who forever transformed his mindset and, consequently, our world. His tale isn’t just inspiring, it’s a how-to guide from going from nobody to epic cool guy,

Jobs, like many of us, was brought up with the belief that life was meant to be lived quietly. He was supposed to fit in, have a comfy life, save some dough, and avoid shaking things up. But to Jobs, that felt as thrilling as watching paint dry.

One day, Jobs looked around and had a lightbulb moment. He realized that everything around him was crafted by people just like him. They weren’t particularly special or superhuman. This revelation acted as his personal wake-up call. It sparked a fire in his belly, igniting his resolve to not just exist, but to shape his life and the world around him.

Jobs didn’t just want to live, he wanted to leave a legacy. He saw the world as a canvas, waiting for his unique imprint. He once said, “Once you learn that, you’ll never be the same again.”

This mindset was his ticket to an extraordinary life. He didn’t wait for the green light to pursue his dreams, he stomped on the accelerator and steered his own course. His mantra was that we all have the right to change the world and the power to define our own destiny.

Now, here’s the kicker…

You’re no different from Steve Jobs. You possess the same limitless potential to reshape your world. So, inspired by Jobs’ story, shift your mindset, take the driver’s seat, and steer your life toward your own version of extraordinary.

How Anne her mindset shift made her a millionair

I left a 20+ year commercial banking career to go full time as a real estate investor once I shifted my mindset.  I began investing in vacation rental cabins in 2019 and pivoted to a mindset of no fear and the rest is history.  I grew my real estate portfolio to double digits and a value of $7 million in three years, and yep they are all cabins. 

Without strict attention to mindset I would have never become a millionaire and have been able to quit my job so quickly.  Now I am doing what I love and have become known as The Cabin Lady and am being asked to be on TV about my story.

I was able to change my mindset by putting myself first and determining that I would rather live life as a dream – versus doing what’s comfortable as a result of fear of failure.

Leslie Anne Morris

Lessons Learned from Their Experiences

Additional Resources for Mindset Change

Over the years I have read more books, listened to more ted-talks, and seen more YouTube videos about mindset than I can possibly remember.

Here are my all-time favorites that have made a big impact on my life.

Books That Can Help Shift Your Mindset

If you’re anything like me, an old-fashioned bookworm, then you know what they say: “A book is a friend that doesn’t judge you for your Netflix binge-watching habits.” So here are some books that have helped me alter my mindset, for better or for worse (but mostly for better):

1) Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

This book is a must-read for anyone looking to shift their mindset towards growth and improvement. Dweck’s research on the power of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset is eye-opening and inspiring. Her insights into how our beliefs about our abilities can impact our success and happiness are truly life-changing. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their mindset and achieve their goals.

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2) The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

This book is all about living in the present moment and embracing the power of mindfulness. Tolle’s insights into the nature of the mind and the ego are profound and thought-provoking. His teachings on how to quiet the mind and find inner peace are incredibly valuable. While some may find Tolle’s writing style a bit dense or esoteric, I believe that anyone who is open to exploring the power of mindfulness will find this book to be a valuable resource.

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Podcasts and TED Talks for Inspiration

Sometimes, my eyes just need a break from reading. That’s when I turn to podcasts and TED Talks to get my daily dose of food for thought (and give my eyes a breather).

• The Life Coach School Podcast: With Brooke Castillo, you’ll get all the magic you need to keep your mindset in check. Episodes drop every Thursday. Set a reminder!

• TED Talks: Just look up any topic with “mindset” in it, and you’ll find a plethora of magnificent speakers sharing their wisdom and experiences.

Useful Online Courses and Workshops

I’m a firm believer in “you can teach an old dog new tricks.” So here’s a little something for the lifelong learners out there:

• Coursera: You can find a variety of courses in personal development and mindset shifting. Bonus: many of these courses are free!

• The Mindfulness and Meditation Summit: I don’t know about you, but sometimes a little mindfulness goes a long way in helping me keep my mindset in check.

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Alright, those are my top picks for mindset-changing resources. Keep it brief, they said. So that’s all you’ll get from me.

Your Final Steps Towards a Positive Mindset

Well, wasn’t that a wild ride? We’ve journeyed from uncovering our current mindset to surrounding ourselves with positivity, setting gleaming goals, and taking decisive action. Just remember, this isn’t a one-and-done deal; shaping your mindset is a constant adventure.

Now, you’ve got the tools and the map, so what are you waiting for? It’s time to dive headfirst into your personal growth.