2023-12-28-092300 Pursuing incremental progress against doubters is an example of a growth mindset

[2023-12-28 Thu 09:23]

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In the book Born Standing up, Steve Martin says that he did not strive valiantly against doubters, but took incremental steps studded with a few intuitive leaps. This is an example of the growth mindset explained the book Mindset (Dweck, Carol S., 2008)

I think this is a subtle, but important thing to be cognizant of. In the quest for performance and glory, it becomes easy to become obssessed with, or react violently to criticism and doubters. This kind of behavior is more consistent with the fixed mindset, where you refuse to acknowledge the potential to grow, and yet cannot really ignore it and so 'react', perhaps similar to the examples of John McEnroe?.

Chipping away : whether at a project, or perceived flaws or anything you really want to do seems to be the only sure shot way to getting something done, if not achieving said goal. Even in this case, one might still fail - but such a failure becomes bearable because of the belief and passion that is powering the mundane actions needed to chip away at the goal, and thus making the journey itself worthy irrespective of the outcome. It's worth noting that journeys often accumulate many side-benefits, both intentional and un-intentional.

The concept of chipping away at a larger outcome is also emphasised in the book Atomic Habits (Clear, James, 2018) where building habits start from a tangible, small habit. If you become 1% better everyday, you are 365% better at the end of the year.

I think another key thing to keep in mind is in understanding (and remembering) the 'human element' of criticism, and noting whether the statement is subjective or not. Whether it is your boss or your colleague, sometimes judgment is passed without a complete view of the situation and factors. Opinions can change based on how your day is going, and is shaped by your own life experiences as well. Once this empathy is in place, I've found that it becomes easier to 'stay on track', and perhaps makes one more 'human' in the process. BusinessJournal, CareerJournal.

There is in short, not much point in reacting or even thinking 'too much' when proferred criticism - a balanced approach, with systematic effort towards mitigation is more likely to provide better results in the long run. Measured reaction is always a good path to good mental and physical health. One may be able to move mountains in a day, but it is unlikely that can be done everyday.