Learning MIND-SET

As part of the pre-work for a programme, we routinely encourage learners to complete a self-awareness framework to help them to identify the mind-set they will bring bring to the learning environment. We categorise these in three ways:

The Growth Mind-set

An individual who is keen to be the best version of themselves they can possibly be. They tend to be open to trying new things and taking inspiration from others. They are not worried about making mistakes; they understand that you learn from making mistakes. They are comfortable with treating success and failure equally. They will enjoy stretching themselves and getting out of their comfort zone.

A Mixed Mind-set

An individual who is open to stretching themsleves and embracing new challenges in some areas of their life, whilst in others they tend to be a little conservative. They have some examples of trying new things and have enjoyed the positive emotions associated with discovery and adventure. Frequently their challenge is to develop more consistency by weeding out self

-limiting beliefs that are holding them back from realising their full potential.

A Fixed Mind-set

An individual who may tend to be fearful of mistakes and be a little sensitive to being seen to be wrong or foolish. Often they will feel that they have little to learn. They may also feel the need to prove themselves in the eyes of others. They are able, with effort, to change theirr mindset. For many in this position, making this choice comes with a huge sense of relief.

Changing Your Mind-set

Learning is recognised to have taken place when behaviour has changed. Openness to new ideas and an individual's beliefs about their own performance are therefore critical to how fast they will learn.

Trying new things offers the certainty of making mistakes, not getting it right first time; and for some this creates an unhelpful fear. Although some people may believe that there is not much that can be done to change the way they think, there are a few things that can really help them extract the most value out of a learning experience.

We are keen to encourage a "fearless" attitude. Not having, or banishing, fear allows people to focus on what they are doing, instead of introducing all kinds of distracting noise in their minds. It means people can embrace their mistakes and see them for what they are, an opportunity to put things right and develop expertise. It supports people in coping with difficult or challenging situations when things are going wrong, because they learn to recover from setbacks and above all fearlessness enhances their enjoyment of their performance.

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