Strengths and a Growth Mindset
By Steve Gahagen
I sometimes cross paths with people who believe that a growth mindset and the use of the Clifton StrengthsFinder are in conflict with one another. A careful study shows the opposite to be true. Though the initial focus is to help people discover their unique talents, the larger goal is to develop those talents with skills, knowledge, and practice. The assessment is a starting point for students and adults alike. The value for students is a launching point to take risks and grow. It affirms where they have already demonstrated moments of excellence but were unaware of the why.
The author of Mindset indicates we have natural talents. Here is an early quote in the book:
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—in their initial talents and aptitudes, interests, or temperaments—everyone can change …
When Gallup communicates that we become more of who we are, they are talking about core personality traits. The strengths concept encourages people to grow, risk, and develop. A strengths foundation gives someone more courage to try things, initially in areas they are more likely to be successful - giving even greater confidence. Discovering our talents is a lifetime treasure hunt. The CliftonStrengths assessment enables us to uncover what we might not have seen.
The author of Mindset writes that people with a fixed mindset think, “Nothing ventured, nothing lost. If at first you don’t succeed, you probably don’t have the ability.” The fear is that people with a fixed mindset will shy away from any potential to fail. Strengths philosophy does not support a mindset of no effort and avoiding failure. Gallup encourages growth and wants to help people thrive. Every group I have worked with, whether a school, church, or business, has a passionate desire to grow - that was their motivation behind bringing strengths to their students or team. A growth mindset and developing our strengths go hand in hand.
Questions to Consider:
How can knowing your talents encourage you to grow and take risks? Do you have any personal examples?
What might cause someone to have a fixed mindset - to fear failure and not give their greatest effort?
How have you grown in your personal and professional life? How have you leveraged your strengths to accomplish that growth?