The new year is the perfect time to adopt a growth mindset where you believe that you—and anyone in your organization—can learn and be better with hard work and determination.
There are huge benefits to this way of thinking as a woman business owner. You won’t be fazed by setbacks. You’ll face challenges with confidence. And you’ll be less likely to give up, and happier overall. It’s exactly what you need right now to power all your dreams in 2024.
The “growth mindset” theory was first introduced by psychologist Carol Dweck through her extensive research on achievement, success and motivation. Carol suggests that people with this mindset see challenges and setbacks as stepping stones to mastery and growth. They believe their potential is unlimited because intelligence and skill can be developed.
That’s the beauty of a growth mindset—it’s not what you’re born with; it’s the effort you’re willing to put into improving and growing to become the best version of yourself as a woman business owner.
Still, it’s a way of thinking that doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Sound familiar? Start by acknowledging that it’s hard to change your mindset, maybe even harder than doing the work itself, but it’s well worth it.
- Start by limiting any distractions. Maybe there are people in your life who underestimate you and are discouraging. Or maybe your social media feed is bringing you down. Don’t let these deviate you from your desired path.
- Reframe negative experiences as positive. Make a list of failures or major challenges you have faced. What did you learn from these? How are you stronger, better and more informed? How can you use these experiences as you move forward?
- Surround yourself with people who share your beliefs: This is where NAWBO comes in. People who aren’t entrepreneurs might have trouble understanding. Your NAWBO peers won’t because they’re walking the same path or have gone down it before you.
- Imagine everything that’s possible. Having a growth mindset is about dreaming big and going for it. Spend time imagining. Remember, your potential is unlimited because you can develop the knowledge and skills you need to achieve anything.
- Last, it takes time. The hardest part of learning something that’s new to you is unlearning. If a growth mindset doesn’t come naturally, slowly change your way of thinking and give yourself a pass if you revert to what’s more comfortable and have to start over.
Once you have a growth mindset, of course, there are so many ways to grow your business. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Have a plan and develop access to capital. Make investments in tools and technologies that can differentiate you. Hire and retain the right people and focus on customer service. Also, know about and tap into programs and learning opportunities that can help.
Later this month, NAWBO is bringing together women business owners from across the country to grow our leadership together. Remember that point about surrounding yourself with people who share your beliefs? This is it! We’ll be inspired, brainstorm, build camaraderie, have fun and so much more. It’s not too late to grab your entrepreneurial friends and join us. Check out Leadership Academy and register here.
