The Power of a Growth Mindset in Your Health Leadership Journey
The concept of a growth mindset has gained traction in recent years. Coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, a “growth mindset” refers to the belief that a person’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and continued learning.1,2
Research shows that a growth mindset in the healthcare setting can improve a person’s overall health and healing. When it comes to health and medical journeys, adopting a growth mindset can be a powerful asset for both patients and health leaders.3
This or That
Do you believe a growth mindset can improve a person’s overall health and healing?
Growth mindset versus fixed mindset
A growth mindset is the belief that you can continuously grow and improve. People with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Patients with a growth mindset see setbacks or challenges as temporary hurdles that can be overcome with perseverance and effort. This fosters resilience, which allows you to recover and move through hard situations.3,4
The opposite of a growth mindset is called a “fixed mindset.” People with a fixed mindset believe their abilities are unchangeable. This kind of mindset can limit you, for example if you think your current abilities are settled and cannot be improved.4
For example, say you are about to start a new treatment for your medical condition. You could either:3
- See the new treatment as scary and not likely to work because you have a family history of the disease so there is nothing you can do about it (a fixed mindset), or
- See this as an opportunity to embrace change, learn about the new treatment, and be open to whatever comes as a result (a growth mindset)
How to cultivate a growth mindset as a Health Leader
As a Health Leader, you can harness the power of a growth mindset. Even if you have had a fixed mindset in the past, you can make the switch with a few intentional shifts in mindset. See examples below. 4
Embrace learning
Health Leaders who have a growth mindset actively seek knowledge about their health condition. They do not see a diagnosis as a fixed sentence. Rather, they see it as an opportunity to understand and manage their condition better.3
What you can do: Engage with your healthcare team, ask questions, and stay informed about the latest advancements in treatments and lifestyle changes that can positively impact your well-being. Then, share how these learnings have impacted your health journey with your community and followers.
Embrace change
A newly diagnosed or ongoing (chronic) medical condition often means you have to make lifestyle changes. Whether it is transitioning to a new treatment regimen, going on a new medicine, modifying your diet, or incorporating stress-reduction practices, be open to change.3
What you can do: Understand that making these adjustments is a natural part of the health journey. Do not fight against change. That will only make the process that much more difficult. By embracing a growth mindset, you can view these necessary lifestyle changes in a positive light as a way to care for your body and mind.4
Set realistic goals
Sure, it is great to have ambitious goals, but this can be daunting for some. And it could lead to burnout if you do not meet these goals within a timeframe you deem reasonable.
What you can do: Set realistic and step-by-step targets. Break down big goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach makes the journey less intimidating. It also allows for a sense of accomplishment along the way. Celebrate small victories. Use setbacks as opportunities to learn and adjust your approach.
By adopting a growth mindset, you can help others
Having a growth mindset can spread to others in an organic, natural way. Seeing how you embrace change and use experiences to strengthen yourself and your well-being can inspire others to want to do the same for themselves.
It fosters a culture of innovation
Health Leaders with a growth mindset understand that the healthcare landscape is dynamic. Telehealth, virtual appointments, and patient portals make it even easier to access care in a timely, convenient way.
But these new ways of doing things can be hard for some patients and caregivers. Encourage the people in your life to explore new technologies, methodologies, and approaches to patient care. Remember that experimentation is totally valid. And do not be afraid to share your experience along the way.
It inspires continuous learning
A growth mindset involves recognizing that knowledge is ever-evolving. It also keeps you humble. Staying informed enhances decision-making and patient outcomes.4
Stay up to date on the latest research and developments in healthcare. Attend conferences, subscribe to relevant newsletters about your health condition, and sign up for classes on professional development. There are many great resources out there that you can take advantage of. And a lot of them are free! Being a “student” in this way will hopefully set off a spark to learn more.
It encourages collaboration with others
A growth mindset in health leadership involves recognizing the potential for collective growth and success. Think about all the different people in your life and how you can promote collaboration. This could be with your:
- Family members and friends
- Fellow Health Leaders
- Healthcare team (including doctors, nurses, physical therapists, nutritionists)
- Online audience and social media followers
It is never too late
Adopting a growth mindset can transform your Health Leadership experience. It also has the capacity to inform others, improve patient outcomes, and make you an advocate for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves.
Whether you are navigating your health journey more privately or are a Health Leader who is sharing your experience publicly, the power of a growth mindset can be the key to unlocking your full potential!
Join the conversation