I am in my first semester of education courses, and we covered something called growth mindset today. My professor was telling us that in order to become a great teacher, we must first adopt it.

I'm sure you're wondering 'what is a growth mindset?' It is exactly what it sounds. In order to implement a growth mindset, one must first accept that they can do more than they think. A growth mindset is acknowledging ones faults, while also realizing that they are not a lost cause. Skills are developed over time. A person with a growth mindset would say something along the lines of "Yeah, I don't really understand that question, but I'm sure with practice I'll be able to master it." However, this concept is actually one half of a whole. Its copilot is called a fixed mindset.

The fixed mindset is also simple to define. Essentially, it means that a person has become discouraged and is no longer willing to acknowledge that they have potential for growth. People with a fixed mindset might say things like "I failed the last math test, there is no point in studying for the next one because I know I'm going to fail anyways." This outlook does not promote improvement to any degree.

Some of you are probably thinking 'okay, get to the point already' and others already know where I'm going with this. Either way, I'm gonna explain why I found this so important. As an English major, I like to draw connections in my everyday life. So when my professor was explaining this idea to us, I couldn't help but think about how this should be adopted outside of the classroom as well within it.

A growth mindset is vital to every single person. As humans, we tend to convince ourselves that we're not worth effort or attention. We get into this headspace where we wholeheartedly believe that we are toxic for everyone around us. It's a natural feeling, but it can be changed if you want to change it. Realizing that you are more than you make yourself out to be is the first step. If you don't realize that you have an opportunity for growth, you've become stagnant. Be honest with yourself and realize your shortcomings. I'll even go first if that makes it easier for you.

My name is Susie, I am slow to forgive and I feel like everything is my fault. I lose myself sometimes, and wonder how I could possibly have been made in the image of God. But I realize that I am a work in progress, and I am no where close to being done. See! It's not hard. Just realize that you are who you are, and that will change with time. You have the tools to become the person God intended you to be.

Growth doesn't happen over night, it's a process. Trust the process and go easy on yourself.