Genius and the Brain #2

The book Mindset: the new psychology of success; how we can learn to fulfill our potential by Carol S. Dweck, PhD, is all about (no surprise) mindset. She talks about two: the fixed mindset and the growth mindset—and how the view you adopt profoundly impacts the way you lead your life and its ultimate outcome. “This growth mindset is based on the belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts. Although people may differ in every which way—their initial talents and aptitudes, interests, or temperaments—everyone can change and grow through application and experience.” Mindset plus the practice described by David Shenk may be what separates genius from the rest of the herd; especially for those who subscribe to the belief that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. It’s the passion for stretching yourself and sticking to it, even (or especially) when it’s not going well. This is the mindset that allows people to thrive during some of the most challenging times in their lives. And, let’s face it, life is challenging.