In the world of personal development, one word has gained almost mythical status: 'mindset'.
The idea that we can change how we think - and therefore our life - is deeply seductive. It's everywhere, from classrooms and boardrooms to the darkest corners of social media.
But are we examining it critically enough?
Here are some popular usages:
Positive Mindset
Growth Mindset
Abundance Mindset
Empowerment Mindset
Mindfulness or Zen Mindset
Warrior Mindset
Stoic Mindset
The Self-Care Mindset
Disruptive Mindset
Adversity Mindset
Now let's ask some critical questions:
1. How do we know these mindsets actually work? What's the evidence?
2. Does attributing success solely to mindset risk shifting blame to those who struggle?
3. Do these mindsets oversimplify complex human psychology and behaviour?
4. Are there cultural biases inherent in any of these mindset theories?
5. Do these mindsets promote authentic self-development, or do they risk promoting a form of self-alienation? Could they actually be harmful?
I know most professional coaches ask these questions because accredited training providers instil these values and critical thinking (I trained with UKCPD, and in philosophy).
The 'growth mindset' framework has been personally effective for me - and anyone who knows me will attest that I have special place in my heart for Stoicism.
But is there a one-size-fits-all?
No.
Client first. Always the client.
Where did the concept, ‘mindset, come from? In the early 1900s, psychologists like William James discussed the importance of habits of mind. The term 'mindset' gained popularity in the 1970s with work on cognitive psychology.
But the roots go way back, to the Socratic maxim to “Know thyself” and the Stoic and Buddhist teachings which emphasized the importance of mental attitudes.
However, it was Carol Dweck's research in the 1980s and her 2006 book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" that catapulted the word ‘mindset’ into mainstream consciousness.
I don’t doubt that millions of people have benefited from greater mindset awareness. I’m one of them!
But are we asking enough questions about potential harm due to misappropriation?
Let’s look specifically at social media influencers.
There are a number of individuals on platforms like Tik Tok or YouTube who loudly promote extreme versions of "mindset coaching".
These aren't qualified coaches but influencers who've latched onto the concept.
They shout their one-dimensional messages so loudly and repeatedly that audiences accept it as 'truth'.
They are always accompanied with powerful, emotive stories of how I went from x to y, and therefore so can you if you do exactly what I say.
Please, let's pause and think critically.
Just because it worked for him or her, will it work for me?
Will it work for them – the people we're hitting the ‘share’ button with? For our friends and family?
Who is shouting directly into the ears of your family member behind their closed bedroom door, telling them they have a ‘loser mindset' and need to 'suffer' to experience ‘success’ through muscular physique?
The impact can be severe, potentially leading to mental health crises, particularly among young people who may be more vulnerable to these isolating, self-obsessed messages that push them towards unattainable standards and set them up for failure.
The one ‘mindset’ I would encourage most is the ‘Stay Curious and Ask Questions’ mindset.
Or, if you prefer, develop a 'Bullshit Detector’ mindset.
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