In the previous blog, we delved into the concepts of fixed and growth mindsets. A fixed mindset implies the belief that one is born with a fixed amount of intelligence and ability, leading to an aversion to challenges and limited opportunities for growth and learning. Conversely, a growth mindset thrives on the belief that learning, and growth are achievable through practice and effort, welcoming challenges and viewing mistakes as opportunities to learn.
Several factors influence the development of a fixed or growth mindset, with significant roles played by parents, coaches, and instructors. The language we use and how we respond contribute to shaping a child's mindset. In my training approach, I prioritize not only physical conditioning but also mental development, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all solution doesn't apply.
Remember we are the guiding light to who they become in life. Here are some strategies that parents and coaches can use to develop a Growth mindset in their kids. These are strategies below that I have learned, and I input into my coaching and kids to develop a growth mindset. You don’t need to implement them all at once, consider trying to do 2 and focus on those until it becomes natural. Deepen your understanding of mindsets and share this knowledge with your athletes. Initiate conversations with your athletes, creating dedicated spaces and time to explore the differences between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset and emphasize the advantages of cultivating a growth mindset. There will always be a coaching moment so make sure you take advantage and guide them on the most ideal response to the situation. Also acknowledge that even your actions serve as a powerful example and there will be moments when we let our feelings and emotions get the best of us.
Body Language
Body language is a nonverbal communication that includes our posture, hand gestures and movements. Body language enhances and amplifies the verbal message being portrayed through hand signals, gestures, and postures. It helps us to convey emotions and intentions that may not be adequately expressed through words alone. According to experts, nonverbal communication like body language makes up around 70-93% of all communication. This means, although we use our verbal communication (words) to share and speak our opinions, our body language will often communicate even more to our audience than we realize. We often think of body language as the result of our attitude or how we feel. This is true, but the reverse is true as well: changing your body language changes your attitude. Positive body language not only changes your attitude but the people around you. You see it all the time. It's a dynamic interplay when everybody is influenced off each other; the players, the crowd, the coaches all feeding off people’s body language. Regardless of how the game is we must remind everyone about the power and significance of their body language.
Watch how you provide feedback (Criticize) and Praise
A fleeting comment here, a positive affirmation there—these words may initially appear inconspicuous, but collectively and especially over time, they wield significant influence on athletes. It is crucial that feedback and praise be directed towards learning, growth, and effort rather than fixating solely on outcomes. When acknowledging skills and abilities, it's beneficial to tie the praise back to the process, practice, and discipline previously demonstrated by the athlete. Avoiding comparisons between athletes is advised; instead, it's more constructive to evaluate an athlete against their own past performance. Encourage athletes to be process orientated by having them focus and channel their attention and efforts towards the steps needed to improve, grow, and develop. Athletes will benefit in the long run if they chase continual improvement rather than fixating solely on immediate results. As a player, I remember I would always look for my family and where they were sitting before a game. I would then look again to them for encouragement both when I was doing good and when I messed up during the game. Now being a father and a coach, I try to maintain a composed body language. I offer positive praise for great performances and provide constructive but still positive feedback when mistakes occur, guiding them on how to correct and improve.
The Power of “YET”
A key idea of growth mindset is the belief that abilities are not finite or fixed. To instill this perspective, incorporate the word “yet” into your vocabulary as a coach or parent and encourage athletes to add it to theirs. You want to shift athletes from believing “I can’t do it” to believing “I can’t do it yet”. Discuss with athletes the importance of mistakes and failures for learning and growing. Set up a culture and environment where trying new skills is encouraged. Learning should be messy, and sometimes difficult, and failures should not be avoided. Spend time with your athlete unpacking failures and mistakes and helping them to learn from them. Remember, just like Rome wasn't built in a day, some things require time and consistent effort to develop and succeed.
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