by Linda
Growth Mindset
In order to understand how to take on the practice of creating a growth mindset, first, take a look at the difference between the two mindsets; a fixed mindset and a growth mindset.
A Fixed Mindset
A fixed mindset, especially in the area of academics, intelligence, and study dictates that it is what it is or that the status is fixed, unchangeable and with no room for growth or potential.
A Growth Mindset
A growth mindset takes on a different perspective. A growth mindset takes on challenges as a way to expand and grow. It also dictates that there is room for hard work, learning, and achieving.
How to Gain a Growth Mindset
- Exercise Your Way to a Growth Mindset
You might be asking, “What does exercise have to do with gaining a growth mindset?” The answer is there is a different type of exercise you can do. It’s not the physical kind – it’s the mental kind. Oh, do you get it now?
When you exercise your brain, you give this muscle a chance to grow and expand over time. If you want to gain a growth mindset, you need to take on new, challenging things. Once your brain sees that it can overcome challenges, taking on more challenges becomes easier over time. Once your mind recognizes you are taking on something new, fear can become minimized and new things will be placed in the part of your brain compartmentalized as something not to be feared. Isn’t this fantastic? Who would have thought something so simple would work?
If you have a certain learning capacity and accept that this is your limit, then that will be your limit. However, on the other hand, if you work harder, take on more learning, and then work even harder, you will begin to notice a shift. You will begin to challenge your own status quo. Woah, this is pretty heavy stuff right here!
The harder you work, the more results and rewards you will see. You will shift your mindset to understand that the more effort you put in, the more effort you will get out. It doesn’t have to stop at a certain static place. You can work hard, you can put in more effort, and you can achieve different results.
Have you ever heard a point of view or a perception that was astonishing and bold? Do you sometimes see how other people set the bar a bit higher, try new things, and work harder? Just because you have to work harder, does not mean you cannot be more successful. Take some time to examine a certain area of your life, such as academically, and see if you can’t think outside the box, enter new territories, and achieve higher goals.
After all, anyone who has made a medical breakthrough or achieved a higher goal has probably done so by working harder, trying new things, and stretching way outside of their comfort zone; and you can too.
Need help with figuring this out? I can help with that. Join my Group Mentor Program and get the results you’re looking for to improve your growth mindset.
by Linda
Communication – Changing Your Mindset
Older theories about intelligence dictate to us that we are born a “certain way.” We have certain traits that others do not possess, others have certain traits that we do not possess, and that is that! There is no room for growth or expansion. Say what? Our intelligence is as it always was and there is no room for improvement. Back it up now…what?? Say that again, please. We are born a “certain way”… is that the way communication about intelligence is supposed to be?
So in today’s world, we know better. We know that we have the ability to change our mindset and, therefore, improve our capacity for learning by leaps and bounds. No longer is the status quo necessary. We can grow and strive to achieve more academically and, therefore, in life. Whew…I thought I was going to have heart failure right here on this blog post! My communication skills are okay, aren’t they? You be the judge.
Please Choose Your Words Carefully
Each one of us goes through our days speaking our mind. Yes, we do. We say things without giving it much thought and sometimes even holding things in and not speaking up for ourselves. Ha, then only to berate ourselves later on for doing so. If you take a moment to recognize and record the words you use daily, you may come to realize that the words you choose might directly relate to the mindset you have. Of course, why wouldn’t what’s on your mind affect what you say? You are communicating with your brain through your thought process.
What is a Mindset? Answer this Question for me, Please!
A mindset is a mental attitude you adopt which dictates how you will or will not perceive, react and respond to situations. Ok, I get is, so why is it important? Your mindset can and will determine your life from academics to career and beyond. Oh really, you say…I think I’d better straighten mine out then. I don’t like having a poor mental attitude, do you?
So, Why is it Important to Communicate Effectively?
The way you interpret your situation communicates to your brain. When it comes to intelligence, you may have a long-standing belief that you are either one way or another. For example, you may feel that you are average and are not questioning that old, limiting, and long-standing belief. It is important to communicate effectively by choosing the thoughts that will change the outcome. Oh, I get it now, don’t you? Changing your thought process with change the way you communicate with others.
Definition
com·mu·ni·ca·tion kəˌmyo͞onəˈkāSH(ə)n/ noun 1. the imparting or exchanging of information or news. “direct communication between the two countries will produce greater understanding” synonyms: transmission, conveyance, divulgence, disclosure; 2.means of connection between people or places, in particular.
For example, there have been many firsts in your life. You had to allow your first child to get on the bus to go to kindergarten without you there. Right? The next child it was a little easier and by the third child, if you had one, this task was not as big of a deal as the first time you had to face it. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking…get on the BUS ALREADY child!
By communicating to yourself that you can and will get through the many things that life sends to you, you’ll be able to meet and face more and more challenges along the way. More importantly, you get to do it with ease and grace; as long as you communicate to yourself that, you can and are able to do so. This is important stuff here my friends so I hope you are listening really well.
Effective Business Communication is Important Also
Communication is so much more than the words you speak to yourself; it’s also the thoughts you think. Hummm, have you ever thought of it this way? When you challenge yourself and achieve, you reset the communication bar. You allow yourself to see that not only can you achieve more by learning new things and taking on more challenges, but you also get to see that you can take on a growth mindset instead of a limiting one. Yes…I believe that!
If you are looking to improve your communication skills, especially for your business, join my Group Mentoring Program where you’ll learn effective communication skills in dealing with all types of situations. I have sessions starting every month, as a matter of fact…one is starting tomorrow, May 25th. Jump on quickly and get the special deal I’m offering right now. See ya there!
Oh, I almost forgot – if you need any of the business services I offer – please contact me here. Thanks a bunch!
by Linda
How to Change Your Mind
When it comes to changing your mind, do you view that as a negative? Huhhh? In other words, do you have the perception of someone changing his or her mind as being indecisive or weak? Well, there are several reasons why changing your mind can, in fact, be a positive event.
From childhood, there are many stories we tell ourselves as we absorb the environment around us. For some of us, we might believe that our siblings are older, wiser, and smarter and that we simply cannot match up with their intelligence. For others, there may be a mindset of living small because every time we did not succeed we were praised and accepted anyhow instead of encouraged and motivated to do better. Doing better may have somehow been viewed and interpreted as wrong and unaccepting. Did this happen to you?
We all want our children to succeed and, as such, we may or may not set the bar too low and not encourage a growth mindset. We may instill in them that they are set in their ways and there is no chance for growth, and by the way, we do this inadvertently.
Labels
Sometimes we are given labels and, all too often, we have no clue that we do not have to accept or even identify with those labels. We may be taught that Johnny is the math genius while Suzy is the musician in the family – a limiting mindset that is more or less fixed. Did you know that you could change those labels by working harder to be whatever it is you wish to be in the world of academics? How is this possible?
How YOU can fix this:
* Start with recognizing that you are capable and have the ability to change your mindset. This is the first step in changing your mind.
* Recognize that you can change your label at any time. All you have to do is choose to do so.
* Next, it’s time to get to work. No change comes without work involved.
Practices to Take on
If you are a parent, there are certain steps you can take in order to facilitate a growth mindset. Start by giving your child a way and a means to reach higher goals rather than labeling them as “not good in math,” or “better in art.”
* Don’t set the bar too high, as unrealistic expectations and goals are not beneficial.
* Don’t set the bar too low so that no challenge or growth is initiated.
* Offer constructive criticism in order to have your child reach and grow, which sends the message that they are most certainly capable of doing great things as long as they choose to. A growth mindset is for everyone.
If you are a teacher or mentor, it is better to facilitate growth by motivating rather than labeling or viewing your student or athlete as someone who is, “not as good as” someone else or “not as talented in a certain area or skill.”
* Consider each member of the team as an individual. Seek to discover their weaknesses. In this manner, you can then concentrate on how to challenge them.
* Challenge them to reach greater heights by motivating rather than considering them to be “as is” in any arena.
* Give them the belief that they can and will work hard to achieve greater results; that they can be stretched to grow.
When it comes to changing your mind, you have a choice. Face the areas of your life that are your weakest; avoidance doesn’t work, work hard in that area to excel, and never stop learning.
So, how does this relate to business? It’s all about your mindset and how you focus on your dream. Things from your past WILL come up in your TODAY. Learn to deal with it, put it in the PAST where it belongs and focus on the FUTURE! Yours and your business!
If you need help focusing on your dream business, please contact me. I have a brand NEW Group Mentoring Program that just might help you figure ALL the things that need figuring out! Make your mindset a priority.
by Linda
Tips for Building Relationships
There are some things we can do in all our relationships to build and maintain strong bonds. This is true because, underneath all our differences, likes, dislikes, and biases, we are all human beings who desire social connections. The tips below should be used in all your relationships to form bonds that will stand the test of time. So, how do you start building a relationship?
How to Build the Ultimate Relationship:
1) Be appreciative
This might mean different things in different relationships, but the overarching sentiment is the same. When they do something kind for you or take the time to support you when you need it, be appreciative – acknowledge their care and concern.
2) Spend time together
It can be hard to find time to get together when we are all so busy, but it’s important for all relationships. If necessary, set up a standing appointment so that it just automatically happens. This makes sure it happens because you will get used to scheduling other things around it.
3) Communicate honestly
Sometimes you may be tempted to bend the truth to avoid conflict, but your relationships will be much healthier overall if honesty is held in high regard. It’s possible, to be honest without being brutal. Choose your words carefully and be as diplomatic as possible, while still sharing your feelings openly and honestly.
4) Forgive faults
Forgive them for their eccentricities and annoying habits, and also forgive yourself for any mistakes you make. We all have faults and shortcomings that we bring with us into any relationship. Sometimes to keep the relationship strong, we need to just come to the conclusion that their presence in our lives is more important than the little habits that drive us crazy.
5) Support them
Intermingled between all the good times, there will surely be times when the other person could use a helping hand. Whether it’s helping them move, taking them dinner when a loved one has passed or being a sounding board for a difficult decision, any relationship worth having requires some TLC. And the other person deserves it, just as you do when you need it from them.
6) Do unto others
It’s just a good idea to always live by the Golden Rule, but it’s especially true in relationships that are important to us. If you wonder if something you might do is likely to upset them, chances are it’s better to talk to them about it first. Wouldn’t you want them to do the same for you? It’s better to err on the side of caution.
So, there you have it. The 6 Tips for Building a Relationship. It’s not hard to do, you just need to do it, just like Nike says. Honestly, here is my 2 cents worth. You can’t have a relationship unless you build it. And to build it, sometimes you have to listen to your instincts. Not everyone in the world is going to be your friend. That’s ok, you don’t NEED tons of friends. But you do need to have good relationships with those few that you really like. What’s the point anyway if it’s not a good relationship? Take the time to build them, appreciate them, find them. It will enrich your life so much.
And on that note, you can contact me anytime you need help in building your relationships. I also have a wonderful course on Relationship Marketing. You can access that here —> Relationship Marketing.
by Linda
Is it Time for a Change?
When was the last time you changed the theme on your website? Changed your headshots? Rewrote your “About” page? Ok Y’all, don’t you think it’s time to change all that!
If the answer to any of those questions is more than a year ago, listen up, because big paychecks require more than a fancy sales page and an email pitch. If you want to attract high-end clients, you have to look and act the part. Am I Right?
Change your Headshots
We all looked better ten years ago, but that’s no excuse for using old, outdated or—heaven forbid—amateur headshots.
When you’re selling any type of programs from $27.00 into the five figures, looking professional is critical, and that starts with great headshots. Hire a photographer who specializes in portraits for Virtual Service Providers. Expect to spend a few hundred dollars for a selection of high-resolution images you can use in all your marketing materials, including on your website.
Get Your Website Redone for a Fresh Change
Speaking of websites, if you’re still using the same theme you designed yourself, it’s time for a new look. While you can say that potential clients should not judge you by the way your site looks, they will. A clean, modern website will work wonders to improve your credibility and start attracting the right clients.
While you’re at it, take some time to solicit new testimonials. Don’t just load them all up on a single page though. Take the best ones and add them to your sales page, put them in your email newsletters, and include them in your lead-gen materials as well.
Your About Page Too – I’m telling you now…
And, don’t forget your “About” page, either. This one is hard for most people, so it’s a good idea to have someone else write this, or at least have a writer revise the one you wrote. Remember to include your most recent accomplishments, any awards or accolades, any speaking engagements, and anything else that lets people know you’ve got what it takes to help them grow. Include a few personal details as well, so readers will feel as if they know you just little better for having read it.
Remember to update your social media profiles as well. LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and others have a long reach, so you want to ensure that no matter where potential clients find you, the information is consistent and professional.
Getting new headshots and making over your website might feel like a waste of time, but the truth is, people do judge a book by its cover. Yes, that’s a fact and you often only have a second or two to make a good impression. Make sure it’s the best one you can make.
Change is good! If you’re looking for an updated website, please contact me here. I’d LOVE to give you a fresh new look!
Leave me a comment below, I’d love to hear from you.
