Reference: Berg, J. M., Wrzesniewski, A., Grant, A. M., Kurkoski, J., & Welle, B. (2022). Getting unstuck: The effects of growth mindsets about the self and job on happiness at work. Journal of Applied Psychology.

Reference: Berg, J. M.

Are people’s traits and abilities difficult to change, or can people grow? How you answer this question reflects either a fixed or growth mindset. Individuals with a fixed mindset believe people are difficult to change in their traits and abilities, while individuals maintaining a growth mindset think people are flexible to change. Prior research suggests that those who hold a growth mindset will likely take initiative and use their ability to act. Researchers asked, “What benefits do fostering both self-growth and job-growth mindsets have on employee happiness?” They recruited 150 Fortune 500 Company employees to engage in a workshop focusing on either self, job, or dual mindsets. They presented scenarios exemplifying mindset types and asked participants questions, then participants drew diagrams representing their views. In another study, researchers randomized 400 participants into different mindset conditions to engage in similar online workshops. Results? After six months, participants in the dual-mindset workshops in both groups reported significant increases in reported happiness than those in other workshops. Look for opportunities to grow skills in new directions personally, as well as career-wise. You’ll likely increase happiness! Restore your sense of possibility!

Written by Vanessa Melendez, B.S.