I’ve just finished reading a powerful and eye-opening book: Mindset – The New Psychology of Success by Dr. Carol S. Dweck.
It’s not just a book—it’s a mirror. A reminder. A wake-up call.
This book deeply inspired me to reflect on how our mindset shapes everything—from our confidence to our ability to grow and overcome challenges. I want to share a few thoughts with you that might just shift how you see yourself and others.
Let’s begin with two simple, but life-changing questions:
- What’s the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset?
- Which one are you living with right now?
Before you answer, take a moment to read these examples:
Group A says:
- “I was born this way. I can’t change.”
- “I’m not good at swimming.”
- “Math has never been my thing.”
- “I’ll never be able to speak English fluently.”
Group B says:
- “I can learn anything with effort.”
- “I’d love to learn how to swim!”
- “I didn’t do well this time, but I can improve.”
- “If I keep practicing, I’ll get better—I just don’t understand it yet.”
Now, ask yourself: what happens next?
Group A tends to give up. They avoid challenges, fear failure, and stay stuck.
Group B pushes forward. They ask for help, practice regularly, and slowly—but surely—grow. They build confidence through effort. For them, every setback is a step toward success.
If you find yourself relating more often to Group A—don’t worry. That simply means it’s time to shift your perspective. A fixed mindset says, “This is who I am, and I can’t change it.” A growth mindset whispers back, “Not yet.”
Dr. Dweck writes:
“Even geniuses can fail with a fixed mindset. But an ordinary person with a growth mindset—can become unstoppable.”
And here’s one simple but powerful practice I’ve decided to adopt after reading this book:
From now on, whenever I catch myself saying, “I can’t do this”—I’ll add one word: “YET.”
How about you, my friend?
What’s one thing you can start telling yourself… differently?
With love,
Little-pencil

