Turn Challenges into Champions
Fixed or Growth? Why Mindset Matters
We’ve all seen it or felt it. A fixed mindset is the belief that our intelligence, abilities, and talents are set in stone. In other words, students with a fixed mindset might think, “I’m just not good at math,” or “I’ll never be a strong writer,” and conclude there’s no point in trying. This way of thinking is detrimental because it discourages students from putting in extra effort, taking on challenges, or even asking questions when they’re confused. They often see mistakes as evidence of personal failure rather than opportunities to learn and grow.
In contrast, a growth mindset is the understanding that our intelligence and abilities can be developed through practice, feedback, and perseverance. When students adopt a growth mindset, they become more resilient, willing to tackle difficult tasks, and better able to bounce back from setbacks. They recognize that mistakes are part of the learning process and view them as valuable lessons instead of roadblocks.
~ Henry Rollins, lead vocalist of 1980s punk rock band Black Flag
5 Steps to a Growth Mindset Revolution
1. Empower Students Through Accountability and Empathy
To foster a growth mindset, it’s important to encourage personal responsibility and mutual understanding among students. By empowering students through accountability and empathy, teachers help learners see that their choices and actions directly impact their growth. Encourage students to reflect on their mistakes, explore possible solutions, and identify what they can do differently next time. Combine this sense of accountability with empathy by acknowledging their feelings, validating their efforts, and celebrating every step forward, no matter how small.
2. Build a Positive Classroom Culture with Clear Expectations
Building a positive classroom culture with clear expectations sets the stage for growth. When students know exactly what’s expected of them—both academically and behaviorally—they’re more likely to embrace challenges and take risks. Establish a collaborative set of guidelines or “norms” that everyone agrees on, emphasizing respect, perseverance, and openness to feedback. This kind of clarity can help reduce anxiety and give students a solid framework for success, ultimately reinforcing the belief that their efforts truly matter.
3. Engage Students Who Show Little Interest or Motivation
We’ve all had those moments where a student seems completely checked out, but the good news is that a growth mindset approach can spark a turnaround. Engaging students who show little interest or motivation involves tapping into their personal interests, connecting lessons to real-world experiences, and celebrating small wins. You might incorporate hands-on activities, project-based learning, or technology tools to make lessons more interactive. By providing students with choices in how they learn or demonstrate understanding, you give them a sense of ownership and investment in their education.
4. Foster Strong Relationships to Reduce Classroom Disruptions
Strong, trusting relationships are a cornerstone of a growth mindset classroom. By fostering strong relationships to reduce classroom disruptions, educators create an environment where students feel safe to take risks and make mistakes. Simple strategies like greeting each student at the door, sharing personal stories, or holding one-on-one check-ins can strengthen these connections. When students feel genuinely supported, they’re more likely to engage in the learning process, respect classroom norms, and collaborate with their peers.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement and Real-World Relevance to Engage Learners
Finally, using positive reinforcement and real-world relevance to engage learners can significantly boost motivation and perseverance. Recognize students for their progress, not just their final results. A simple “I can see how much effort you put into solving that problem!” can make a world of difference. Whenever possible, connect lessons to everyday life—show students how the skills they’re practicing will help them outside the classroom. This combination of affirmation and real-life application can inspire them to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough.
Final Word
By embracing these five steps, you guide your students toward a mindset that values growth over stagnation. Not only does this shift help learners develop resilience and confidence, but it also fosters a classroom culture rooted in respect, empathy, and the shared belief that every student has the capacity to improve. When students see themselves as capable of growth, they’re more likely to take ownership of their learning, embrace challenges, and become active contributors in the classroom and beyond.
Learn More
Why is This Book a Bestseller?
And Why is This One Catching Up?
Read More
- McClure, Byron, and Kelsie Reed. 2022. Hacking Deficit Thinking: 8 Reframes That Will Change the Way You Think about Strength-Based Practices and Equity in Schools. Times 10 Publications.
- Roberts, Mike. 2017. Hacking Classroom Management: 10 Ideas to Help You Become the Type of Teacher They Make Movies About. Times 10 Publications.
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‌ “Power Struggles on the Playground: Handling Behavior Issues Outside the Classroom.” X10 Publications blog. February 27, 2025.
- “Be More than a Hammer.” X10 Publications blog. November 7, 2024.
- ‌“A Schoolwide Approach to Fostering a Growth Mindset.” Edutopia. August 7, 2023.
- Collins, Brittany R. “Ask the Cognitive Scientist: Does Developing a Growth Mindset Help Students Learn?” American Federation of Teachers. December 7, 2022.
- “🔥 Rekindle the Spark: Motivate Students Who’ve Checked Out.” X10 Publications blog. February 3, 2025.‌
Empower Students to Grow:
Simple Strategies for Big Results
We usually don’t promote our books in the Teacher Tool Chest, but this one is sure to be one of your go-to references to create a community of responsible, productive learners. Introducing the Washington Post Bestseller, Hacking School Discipline: 9 Ways to Create a Culture of Empathy & Responsibility Using Restorative Justice.
Hacking School Discipline is a tool to help you maintain tranquility in your classroom, a climate of respect, and a controlled culture using proven and effective methods of addressing problem behavior.
For example, here’s what authors Nathan Maynard and Brad Weinstein suggest as an easy way to help your students wrap their heads around the idea of a growth mindset:
There are a number of ways to teach about growth vs. fixed mindsets but connecting it to your students’ own experiences will result in faster internalization. Instead of leading with the concepts of a growth or fixed mindset, which might be confusing, set students up for a reflection where they will naturally stumble upon a time when they had a growth mindset.
Use the term “growth mindset” frequently so students internalize the idea that with enough effort, they can improve or change.
As students enter restorative circles, remind them to maintain a growth mindset about themselves, their peers, and the culture of their class as a whole.
How Do Others Influence Your Own Growth Mindset?
Can the words of your family, friends, colleagues or even strangers shape the way you feel about yourself and your ability to learn? Read on …
Read the Article, Learn Something New
Resources
- Part of this text is taken from Hacking School Discipline by Nathan Maynard and Brad Weinstein.
- Henry Rollins quote image from BrainyQuote.
- Rosie the Riveter image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay.
- Speak Out, Speak Up image from The Washington Post.
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