Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset

The new year is well underway. As we journey through it, it's always a good idea to reflect and set fresh goals. However, the journey to achieving these aspirations can be hindered by the shackles of self-limiting beliefs. Counsellors understand the power these thoughts can have on an individual's ability to reach their full potential.

Lots has been written about in recent years on the topic of having a growth mindset rather than a fixed mindset. However, what's the difference? A growth mindset is the belief that a person's capacities and talents can be improved over time. A 'fixed mindset' on the other hand is, as the name implies, is the limiting belief that the capacity to learn and improve cannot be meaningfully developed.

Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset: A Comparison

Aspect	Growth Mindset	Fixed Mindset
View on Challenges	Embraces challenges as opportunities for growth	Avoids challenges to prevent potential failure
Response to Effort	Values and celebrates effort as the path to success	Believes that effort is fruitless if you're not naturally talented
Dealing with Setbacks	Views setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve	Sees setbacks as proof of lack of ability and gives up
Feedback	Welcomes constructive criticism as a means to grow	Takes feedback personally and may resist it
Success of Others	Finds inspiration in the success of others, seeing it as a source of learning	Feels threatened by the success of others, viewing it as a challenge to their own worth
Learning and Growth	Values ongoing learning and continuous improvement	Believes abilities are fixed and there's limited room for development
Outcome Perspective	Focuses on the process and effort, seeing results as a reflection of learning	Values results as a measure of innate ability and worth

Cultivating a growth mindset involves shifting one's perspective towards challenges, effort, setbacks, and learning, fostering a belief in the potential for continuous improvement and development.

Can a positive growth mindset be cultivated?

Well, those in the know tend to think so, and suggest that one can live a more purposeful and meaningful existence by being open to everyday challenges through learning and development.  A growth mindset can be cultivated through self-awareness, embracing challenges, and learning from setbacks. By fostering a belief that abilities can be developed, individuals open themselves to continuous learning and improvement, paving the way for personal and professional growth.

If you're keen to dig a little deeper into this fascinating topic, then this is an interesting article.

Embracing Your Self-Worth as a Man

Self-worth is an elusive concept that often gets entangled with societal expectations, stereotypes, and personal pressures. As men, the journey toward understanding and embracing our self-worth can be complex, shaped by diverse experiences and narratives.

Self-worth is not about fitting into a predefined mould of strength, stoicism, or success

Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that self-worth isn't tied to nor about fitting into a predefined mould of strength, stoicism, or success. True self-worth transcends these norms. It's about recognising your inherent value as a person beyond societal roles or expectations.

In a world where vulnerability is sometimes misconstrued as weakness, embracing one's emotions and vulnerabilities becomes an act of strength. It's okay to feel and express a spectrum of emotions. Your worth isn't diminished by moments of doubt, fear, or sensitivity. Instead, these aspects enrich the depth of your character.

Healthy Boundaries and Self Compassion

Self-worth also involves setting healthy boundaries and practising self-compassion. It means understanding that your value isn't contingent upon external validations or achievements. It's about treating yourself with kindness, forgiving your imperfections, and understanding that making mistakes doesn't diminish your worth.

Self-Care

Moreover, self-worth is nurtured through self-care.

Taking care of your physical, mental,

and emotional well-being isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. Prioritise activities that rejuvenate your spirit, whether it's through exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

Remember, self-worth isn't a destination but an ongoing journey.

It's about growth, self-discovery, and self-acceptance. Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your strengths, and learn from your experiences, for they all contribute to the tapestry of your worth.

As men, let's strive not for an unattainable ideal of perfection but for a genuine understanding and appreciation of our individuality. Embrace your authenticity, respect your journey, and let your self-worth shine through as an integral part of who you are.

In essence, your worth as a man isn't defined by societal constructs or external validations. It's defined by how you honour and value yourself, embracing your complexities, strengths, and vulnerabilities with grace and authenticity, and by the way you treat others.

You are worth more than you know; you have more to offer than you think!

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If you would like to unpack this or any other issues together with a professional, registered Counsellor, then reach out today and let's journey together.

info@samwaycounselling.com.au

Tel: 0458 191 356

TIPS TO PREVENT HOLIDAY STRESS AND DEPRESSION

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!”Or is it?

From a Biblical/Christian perspective, absolutely! A time to remember God’s gift to this world, His own dear son, our Lord Jesus Christ! Christmas Carols, nativity plays all resonate with the truth of this account.

However, as real as the Biblical narrative is, there is another truth that tends to rear its head more than usual at this time of year for many, and that is stress, depression and/or other associated mental health issues.

The holidays often present a longer-than-usual to-do list of demands — cooking meals, shopping, baking, cleaning and entertaining, to name just a few. Of course, with COVID-19’s sting still being felt in many ways additional stress may be felt across the board.

So, how can one navigate this challenging time of the year in a healthy manner? What are some tips to minimise the stress that accompanies the holidays?

Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression

The old adage “Prevention is better than cure” rings true in this context. When stress is at its peak, it's hard to stop and regroup. Attempting to prevent stress and depression in the first place is the better path to go down.

1. Acknowledge your feelings. If for any reason, you cannot be with loved ones at this time of the year, due to geographical distance or even worse, the passing of someone near and dear, there’s bound to be feeling of sadness and grief. That is OK! It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.

2. Reach out.

• If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community. Get connected with others through local church or community events. Many organisations would welcome you reaching out to them.Support and companionship can be found through these.

• Feeling stressed? Call or text a friend or family member.

• Volunteering your time or doing something to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and expand your friendship circles.

3. Be realistic. Things may not look the same as they did last year; that’s OK. The holidays don't have to be perfect. Even though those plans may look different this year, you can find ways to celebrate.

4. Set aside differences. There’s always going to be that family member that rubs you up the wrong way. Be open to accepting them ‘warts and all’ (easier said than done, I know). Perhaps agree to disagree and set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion.

5. Stick to a budget. Prior to gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend and then stick to your budget. Your kids will prefer your presence to your presents if they had a choice!

6. Plan ahead. Any form of pre-planning that reduces the last minute running around is a good thing.

7. Learn to say no. You dont have to say ‘yes’ to every demand on your time. Where it cannot be avoided (eg. work) then decide on what you need to let go of in order to make room for the extra demand.

8. Don't abandon healthy habits. Holidays can be an excuse to over-indulge, but remember this only leads to added stress and guilt (not to mention an increased waist line). Everything in moderation.

9. Take a breather. Be sure to time ot from the hustle and bustle for you. Self-care, while always important is much needed tis time of the year.Slowing down is crucial.

10. Seek professional help if you need it. Remember, you are not invincible, and despite best efforts, you may still have moments of feeling overwhelmed, irritable and even hopeless. If thes feelings persist, book in with your GP or Counsellor and talk it through.

It’s my prayer, as I pen these tips, that you are indeed able to take control of this holiday season, and not it controlling you. Staying focused on those things that are truly important and at the risk of sounding redundant, remembering the true Reason for the season, peace, hope, joy and love can indeed be experienced this season and in the ones to come.

Blessings

Wayne