Professional Development Corner: March 12, 2025

Growth Mindset and Professional Development:  Do You Have a Growth Mindset or a Fixed Mindset?

by Patty Marbury, Director of Training & Development

Make it a priority!

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities, intelligence, and talents can be developed through dedication, hard work, and perseverance. This concept, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, contrasts with a fixed mindset, where individuals believe that their qualities are static and unchangeable. In the context of professional development, a growth mindset encourages individuals to seek out challenges and learn from mistakes.

Adopting a growth mindset can help you stay motivated and engaged, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks, as they are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures. By viewing challenges as part of the learning process, you will be more likely to take on new responsibilities and engage in professional development and lifelong learning.

Some key benefits of having a growth mindset include:

• Increased Motivation and Effort: If you believe that your abilities can improve with effort you will be motivated to work harder and stay committed to your goals.
• Resilience: You will be better equipped to handle setbacks, and view failures as stepping stones to success, rather than as reflections of your abilities. This is even more important during times of uncertainty like we are facing now.
• Continuous Learning: You will be motivated to seek new knowledge and opportunities for professional development – enhancing your skills through conferences, courses, workshops, certifications, books, articles, and podcasts.
• Adaptability: having a growth mindset helps you remain flexible and open to new methods, tools, and processes.
• Leadership Development: A growth mindset is essential for leadership, as it promotes coaching, mentoring, and continuous improvement.

By adopting a growth mindset, you can take ownership of your development, leading to greater job satisfaction, career advancement, and personal and professional fulfillment.

Read the rest of Patty's Professional Development Corner - it features links to online and in-person professional development opportunities, both paid and free, at UVA and beyond!