Growing within the possible: The pillars of the reality growth mindset
The essence of the Reality-Growth Mindset lies in harmonizing our ambitions with the canvas of our real constraints.
If you’ve ever planted a seed in a pot, you’ve likely noticed that its growth depends on the size of its container.
In a small pot, a plant might flourish for a time, but it will eventually become root-bound, its potential stunted by the confines of its environment. That same plant could grow bigger, stronger, and more vibrant in a larger pot. In many ways, our mindsets function like those pots, determining the extent and direction of our personal growth.
In my previous newsletter (which you can find here), I delved into the transformative power of mindset in our personal development journey. We discussed the allure of the growth mindset, which champions the idea of endless learning and evolution.
But, like that plant in its pot, isn't there a point where we hit a boundary? Where does our growth touch the edges of what's feasible? The belief that we can achieve absolutely anything, while romantic, can sometimes set us up for disillusionment. After all, I can dream of dunking a basketball, but at barely 180cm and in my thirties, the NBA probably isn't in my future.
This is where the "Reality-Growth Mindset" comes into play, striking a balance between the unbridled optimism of the growth mindset and the real-world constraints we all face.
It's a mindset rooted in pragmatism, yet it doesn't curb our enthusiasm or drive. Instead, it offers a nuanced lens through which to view our aspirations, recognizing the fixed aspects of our journey but emphasizing the vast terrains of growth still open to us. It's about recognizing where we truly shine, leveraging our unique advantages, and channeling our energies where we can make the most impact.
Now, with a clearer understanding of this balanced mindset, let's unpack its core pillars, as Ash Ali and Hasan Kubba introduced in their book, "The Unfair Advantage."
Pillar 1: Vision - Your compass in a world of possibilities
Imagine yourself at the helm of a ship with vast horizons in every direction. Without a map or a compass, you could sail endlessly, pushed and pulled by the winds and tides, never genuinely reaching a destination. In life, just as in that vast ocean, having a vision acts as our compass, guiding us toward the shores of our dreams and aspirations.
'Vision' often conjures images of grand dreams or monumental endeavors. And while it's essential to dream big, a vision doesn't necessarily have to be a colossal, earth-shaking goal. It might be as simple as wanting to be your best parent, mastering a particular skill, or impacting your local community. What's crucial is that your vision is clear, offering direction and a sense of purpose.
So, how does one craft a vision? It starts with introspection. Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you, what ignites your passion, and where you see yourself in the future. Ask yourself:
What do I genuinely care about?
Where do I see myself in 5, 10, or 20 years?
What legacy do I want to leave behind?
Your answers might evolve, and that's okay. But by continually checking in with yourself and refining your vision, you ensure that you're sailing toward a destination that aligns with your values and desires.
In the context of the Reality-Growth Mindset, vision takes on an even more nuanced role. It acknowledges the balance between ambition and reality. It's about dreaming big but grounding those dreams in what's achievable, given our unique skills, experiences, and circumstances. It’s the harmony between aspiration and pragmatism.
Pillar 2: Resourcefulness - The art of making the most of what you have
We've all heard tales of inventors who started with little more than a dream and some scrap material or startups born in garages and becoming industry giants. At the heart of these stories is a trait that often goes unsung: resourcefulness. It’s the ability to look at what's in front of you, no matter how limited, and see potential.
Resourcefulness isn't about having abundant resources but optimizing what you already possess. Think of it as a form of creative problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, a resourceful person doesn't just see the obstacles; they see opportunities. They ask, "How can I use what I have in a novel way to overcome this?"
Resourcefulness, while considered innate by some, can be developed by embracing constraints, fostering curiosity, and practicing adaptability. One can effectively enhance problem-solving skills by focusing on available resources, continuously learning, and being flexible.
Resourcefulness takes on a particularly vital role when meshed with the Reality-Growth Mindset. Recognizing the boundaries of reality doesn’t mean becoming passive. Instead, this mindset urges us to be proactive, tap into our creativity reservoirs, and find paths where others see dead ends. It's about making the most of every situation, leveraging what we have, and always seeking growth within the parameters of our reality.
Pillar 3: Lifelong learning - keeping pace in an ever-changing world
In a world evolving at breakneck speed, staying still can feel like moving backward. New technologies emerge, industries transform, and societal values shift. To thrive amidst this relentless change, we must adopt a principle of continuous growth and lifelong learning.
Lifelong learning isn't just about formal education. It goes beyond attending classes and earning degrees. At its core, it's about maintaining a childlike curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and a hunger for self-improvement.
Whether picking up a new hobby, diving into a fresh book, attending workshops, or simply engaging in stimulating conversations, every experience is an opportunity to learn and grow.
The Reality-Growth Mindset emphasizes the balance between accepting certain unchangeable truths about our current capabilities and the infinite potential for personal development. Lifelong learning fits seamlessly into this framework. While we may recognize our limitations today, we also acknowledge our potential to learn, adapt, and grow tomorrow.
Pillar 4: Grit - the unyielding spirit that fuels success
The road to any form of achievement is often long, winding, and filled with unexpected challenges. While vision can plot the course, resourcefulness can provide the tools, and constant learning ensures adaptability, grit, and perseverance keep our feet moving even when the going gets tough.
A renowned psychologist, Angela Duckworth, describes grit as "passion and sustained persistence applied toward long-term achievement, with no particular concern for rewards or recognition along the way." Simply put, it's the relentless determination to stick to your goals, regardless of the setbacks.
Often seen as inherent, perseverance can be developed by embracing failures as lessons, setting clear, incremental goals, and building a supportive network. One can bolster resilience and determination by reframing setbacks, maintaining focus, and leaning on others.
Within the framework of the Reality-Growth Mindset, grit takes on a more profound significance. Recognizing our real-world constraints while ardently pursuing our ambitions requires an unyielding spirit. It's about understanding that while some aspects of our journey are fixed, our determination to push forward isn't one of them.
The essence of the Reality-Growth Mindset lies in harmonizing our ambitions with the canvas of our real constraints. It's not about trimming our dreams but understanding our unique landscape and painting our vibrant path forward. This mindset offers a balanced approach in a world torn between boundless optimism and self-doubt. As we close this exploration, remember: our constraints are not barriers but foundations upon which we build our aspirations. Embrace them, grow within them, and let them propel you forward.
Best, Dominik