Why Mindset is the First Thing to Change if You Want Change to Happen
By Jayson Krause, Managing Director of Level 52 & Award-Winning Author of The Science Behind Success
Change. It's a six-letter word that can evoke a myriad of emotions. Excitement. Fear. Hope. Anxiety. But regardless of how it makes you feel, one thing is certain: change is inevitable. And if you want to navigate it successfully, there's one thing you need to adjust first: your mindset.
Mindset, as defined by psychologist Carol Dweck, is a set of beliefs or a way of thinking that determines one's behaviour, outlook, and mental attitude. It's the lens through which we view the world, and it shapes our approach to everything from challenges and failures to success and growth.
So why is mindset the first thing to change if you want change to happen?
Mindset Shapes Perception: Our mindset determines how we perceive change. If we view it as a threat, we're likely to resist it, even if it's beneficial. But if we see it as an opportunity, we're more likely to embrace it. Changing from a fixed mindset, where we believe our abilities are set in stone, to a growth mindset, where we see potential for development, can transform our perception of change.
Mindset Influences Action: Our mindset not only shapes our perception but also our actions. A growth mindset encourages us to take risks, embrace challenges, and persist in the face of setbacks—all crucial elements for driving change.
Mindset Fuels Resilience: Change is often accompanied by uncertainty and setbacks. A resilient mindset—one that views failures as opportunities for learning rather than as a reflection of one's worth—is key to navigating these challenges and driving change forward.
In my book, The Science Behind Success, I emphasize the importance of mindset in driving any type of sustainable success. Our mindset is the foundation upon which all our actions are built. If we want to drive change, whether in our personal lives or in our organizations, we need to start by first changing our mindset.
Changing our mindset is not a quick fix. It requires self-awareness, reflection, and a commitment to continuous learning. But the payoff is worth it. A growth mindset can transform our approach to change, turning it from a source of fear into a catalyst for growth, innovation, and success.
So, if you're looking to drive change, start by taking a look at your mindset. It might just be the first step towards making that important change happen.
