How will these growth mindset mantras give you a fresh start in the new academic year?
We educators know the power of a growth mindset. We know that this “I think I can” science-backed attitude applies not only to students, but to us as teachers as well. So what are some growth mindset mantras we can keep in mind as the school bell rings and we’re back in session?
Growth Mindset mantra #1: I focus on my own progress.
I love how this affirmation centers our attention on our own steps forward; our own progress. We need not worry about what others are doing (the comparison game was so last year!), but can direct our energy to doing our own next best thing.
Growth Mindset Mantra #2: I believe in my ability to learn and grow.
We’ve all had times where we’ve felt stuck. Moments when it seems we’ve done everything to move the lever and yet… nothing. This second mantra encourages us to remember the countless other times when we’ve set our minds to do something, put in the effort, and… it worked! Students and I love the imagery of our brain muscle growing stronger, our synapses making new connections, each time we practice.
Growth Mindset Mantra #3: Mistakes help me learn and improve.
Can we just take a pause and wonder what the world would be like if we actually believed this one?! How fearlessly we’d take on new challenges in the name of growth? How we’d celebrate mistakes as signs of true effort and improvement? *Goes to post this one behind her desk right now*
Growth Mindset Mantra #4: I am not afraid to ask for help when I need it.
This is another whopper, folks. A real “Man in the Mirror moment.” How many times have we as teachers begged for our students to ask for help? How often have we looked around the classroom, eyes pleading for hands to pop up with questions about confusing points? Yet… how many of us have also lamented the fact that we don’t have *that* book while neglecting to ask for help from the school librarian? Or complained that we’re running out of tissues again without reaching out for parent help? This mantra emphasizes the true courage involved in reaching out for help.
Growth Mindset Mantra #5: I am resilient
When used to talk about a person, resilient means, “able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.” When used to talk about a material, however, resilient is defined as “able to recoil or spring back into shape after bending, stretching, or being compressed.”
Both of these meanings fill out my understanding of this powerful word; help me envision the power of resilience.
Looking for more about Growth Mindset and beyond?
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