What is your mindset? Do you have a “fixed” or a “growth” mindset? For more on the difference between a “fixed” and “growth” mindset, read Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking book Mindset. You will also discover the multitude of benefits of a “growth” mindset.
As leaders, we are well served to not only possess a “growth” mindset, we are well served to communicate in a way that displays a “growth” mindset. This is easier said than done. Often “fixed” mindset language sneaks into our communication.
For example, we might say during a discussion with our team:
- We don’t have a solution.
- We don’t know how to make this process easier.
- We don’t have the resources.
We might think these are statements of facts. And, they are. They are also “fixed” mindset statements. We may, inadvertently, be displaying a “fixed” mindset to our team when we really want to display a “growth” mindset.
Imagine the difference the word “yet” could make.
- We don’t have a solution… yet.
- We don’t know how to make this process easier… yet.
- We don’t have the resources…yet.
Adding the word “yet” easily takes a statement from a “fixed” mindset form of communication to a “growth” mindset form of communication. A form of communication that says solutions are possible, answers are out there, and resources can be found. What a HUGE difference this small word can make.
Where can you add the word “yet?”
For more valuable tips on leadership communication, register for one of these webinars.
Pamela Jett is a communication skills and leadership expert who knows that words matter! In her keynote presentations, workshops, books and online learning programs, she moves beyond communication theory into practical strategies that can be implemented immediately to create the kind of leadership, teamwork, and employee engagement results her clients want.