Carol Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success is one of the most influential psychology books of the past two decades. Based on decades of research at Stanford University, Dweck reveals a remarkably simple idea with profound implications: the belief we hold about our own abilities fundamentally shapes how we live our lives.
Dweck discovered that people fall into one of two mindsets. Those with a fixed mindset believe that their intelligence, talent, and fundamental character traits are set in stone—you either have them or you don’t. This creates an urgent need to prove yourself over and over, to avoid situations where you might be exposed as having less than you claimed. Those with a growth mindset believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.
The implications ripple through every domain of life: education, sports, business, relationships, and parenting. The book shows why talented students often fail to reach their potential while less naturally gifted students outperform all expectations. It explains why some organizations stagnate while others innovate. It reveals why some couples thrive through difficulty while others fall apart at the first sign of trouble.
This mind map guides you through Dweck’s research and insights chapter by chapter—from the foundational distinction between the two mindsets, through their manifestation in school, sports, business, and love, to a practical workshop for cultivating a genuine growth mindset in your own life.
The view you adopt for yourself profoundly affects the way you lead your life. It can determine whether you become the person you want to be and whether you accomplish the things you value. — Carol S. Dweck