How to Have a Growth Mindset During the Process of Change

Self-Improvement

Apr 6

Change can feel like a whirlwind—sometimes exhilarating, sometimes overwhelming. Whether you’re stepping into a new season of life, pursuing a goal, or navigating unexpected shifts, your mindset determines how you experience the journey.

One of the most powerful tools for navigating change with resilience? A growth mindset.

Fixed vs. Growth Mindset: Which One Are You Leaning Into?

Psychologist Carol Dweck describes a growth mindset as the belief that your abilities and circumstances are not fixed—they can evolve with effort, learning, and persistence. On the flip side, a fixed mindset keeps you stuck, making you believe that things are "just the way they are" and change is beyond your control.

For example, consider two ways someone might respond to a challenge:

Fixed Mindset: “I’ve never been good at this, so there’s no point in trying.”
Growth Mindset: “I may struggle with this now, but I can develop the skills I need.”

That simple shift in perspective makes all the difference.

Locus of Control: What’s Driving Your Perspective?

Your locus of control is where you place responsibility for what happens in your life. It plays a huge role in how you navigate change.

External Locus of Control: Believing that success or failure is determined by outside forces (e.g., "The market is too competitive," "I can’t succeed because of my circumstances").

Internal Locus of Control: Believing that your actions and mindset influence your outcomes (e.g., "I will figure out how to stand out," "I have the power to create opportunities").

While there are always external factors at play, shifting your focus to what you can control helps you take aligned action instead of feeling stuck.

1️⃣ Notice Your Self-Talk

Pay attention to how you talk to yourself when challenges arise. Are you saying, “I can’t,” or are you saying, “I’m learning”? Small shifts in language lead to big shifts in action.

2️⃣ Reframe Roadblocks as Learning Opportunities

Instead of seeing obstacles as signs to quit, view them as lessons. What is this moment teaching you? What skills or insights are you gaining?

3️⃣ Focus on What You Can Control

You can’t always control circumstances, but you can control your response. Redirect your energy toward what you can influence—your effort, your mindset, and your next step forward.

4️⃣ Celebrate Small Wins

Progress isn’t always linear, but every small step counts. Recognizing your growth (even in tiny ways) builds confidence and keeps momentum going.

Your Turn: Shift Your Mindset Today

Identify one challenge you’re facing right now.