Stop Doubting and Invest in a Growth Mindset

A fixed mindset based on faulty beliefs can prevent you from taking full advantage of the opportunities life holds. The key to changing your mindset is to understand yourself. Popular author of More Chicken Scratch & Candlewicking, Stephanie Seabrook Hedgepath explained, "Life is about being and becoming, not having and getting." Learning about fixed and growth mindsets will allow you to change destructive patterns that have been limiting your potential in life. People who adopt a growth mindset behave less aggressively and act more social due to the impact change has on a broad range of personal behaviors.

Wishing yourself into a new mindset doesn't work for most people. Try these strategies to make your self-talk work for you, instead of against you:

• Stop Doubting Yourself - With a rigid mindset, failure is an example of your own inadequacy, whereas, with a growth mindset, failure is an opportunity to learn and gain a new perspective.
• Focus on Fast Changes - Some people flip their switch with a brisk walk or morning jog. Find what works best for you and don't waste time getting your day started.
• Assume Change Can Happen - Success often depends on your disposition, so start your day in a positive mood. Avoid being overwhelmed by automatic negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.
• Nothing is Predestined - Don't forget that self-dialogue is the language of your mind. Learn to think positive and you'll see the world differently.
• Become an Overachiever - Optimistic thinking provides a boost for your spirit and triggers the positive emotions, thoughts, and feelings that will motivate you to take actions.
• Follow Your Pace - Some combination of working hard towards your goal and taking a moment to reflect on your achievements is always needed.
• Invest in a Winning Mindset - Worrying about the finish line of life is maladaptive approach that can lead you to live your entire life without actually living.

If you decided to change your way of thinking, it's time to make your self-talk work for you instead of against you. Negative self-talk will not work. Once you muster the motivation to make changes to your life, don't procrastinate. Take the first step, then rely on your growth mindset to guide your future actions. Wishing yourself into a growth mindset doesn't work for most people. A more effective approach involves taking control of your life and mentally empowering yourself to meet new challenges. Everything that you need to be happy is likely right in front of you. So, invest in your own transformation and write your own success story.