In management theory and decision science, a mindset is simply a set of beliefs, approaches, or assumptions held by one or more individuals or teams of people. A mindset may also be defined as the prevailing worldview or philosophical perspective of life held by an individual. The word ‘mindset’ comes from the Greek term “mene,” which means “mind.” It can then be concluded that the meaning of the word is a sum of the most dominant individual or group’s thoughts or attitudes toward a particular situation or objective.
People who are on the high end of the corporate ladder tend to exhibit several common characteristics of a successful mindset. These include an appropriate or desired level of tolerance for risk, an ability to accept uncertainty, an ability to create and implement solutions, an appropriate degree of confidence, and a high level of motivation. These traits are not unique to executives but are common to the very top of the ladder in many areas. Executives who possess these traits are usually highly intelligent and have an exceptional capacity for developing ideas, finding solutions, and achieving organizational goals. To be truly successful, however, they must also use these same talents in the areas of planning, organizing, managing, and motivating their team.
According to new psychology, the ability to change an existing mindset to embrace new beliefs is critical to success. While an executive’s behavior is important, if he or she does not begin to take an active role in altering their beliefs, it will be very difficult for them to successfully achieve the level of success they desire. This is because, as with most human endeavors, changing one’s mindset requires the active engagement of the individual.
For many people, however, changing their mindset requires them to perceive themselves as competent, capable individuals who can accomplish the tasks before them. The second part of this process is much easier to do than the first. In fact, many people with poor self-image and poor self-confidence find that it is the lack of a personal growth mindset that holds them back from taking control of their lives. With the right resources, many people can develop a personal growth mindset and take control of their careers, their finances, and their status in general.
The third step in changing your mindset relates to understanding and recognizing your unique talents. Most people believe that they possess the same general abilities and skills. Those people who know that they have something special possess a mental “set” that sets them apart from everyone else. They also recognize that their unique abilities require a different style of behavior, and that those behavioral traits are not easily learned, but must be cultivated.
Once you understand the unique makeup of your mind, you can use this understanding to cultivate new behaviors that support your personal development. New psychology and self-help programs emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive mental “set” that includes an appreciation for your personal unique abilities while challenging you to explore your inner potential. Once you understand your own mindsets, you can take steps toward empowering yourself by consciously developing new mindsets that support your success.