Develop a Growth Mindset
One of the only ways to uncover hidden potential is to change the way we think. Too often, we become caught up in a negative mindset, which ultimately holds us back and hinders us from truly achieving the greatness we deserve.
To truly excel, we must move from a fixed mindset (negative thinking is rooted in a fixed mindset) to one that has a growth-oriented outlook. Here are some simple ways to transition from a fixed or negative mindset to a growth mindset, allowing you to uncover hidden potential.
Understanding and Recognizing Negative Patterns
Before we can replace negative and fixed thinking, we have to fully recognize it in our own lives. Unfortunately, without a one-on-one mentor, we can’t truly understand what’s going on in your life, but we can offer some ideas on how these thoughts arise.
There are a few different ways this thinking shows up. It’s often through catastrophizing (believing the worst possible outcome is the most likely), all-or-nothing thinking (you either succeed 100% or utterly fail), or self-doubt (the idea that it’s possible, but you’re unable to do it).
Take a look at your thought process when you experience setbacks. This is your first clue on what you really tell yourself and if you’re dwelling or growing.
Twist Them into Something Positive
Growth happens when you’re able to transform those thoughts from negative into positive.
First, question the validity of your negative thoughts. Most likely, they won’t withstand any scrutiny.
Second, change them from negative thoughts into positive and growth-oriented ones by changing “I can’t” into “I can learn.” Or, by adding “yet” statements, such as, “I don’t understand, yet.”
For example, “I’m not good at sales.” Becomes, “I’m learning how to be great at sales.”
“I can’t start my own business.” Becomes, “I haven’t started my own business, yet.”
“I’ll never be happy.” Becomes, “I’m learning how to be happy.”
These subtle shifts and tweaks help our brains refocus the energy. “I’ll never be happy” is absolute, the end. “I’m learning how to be happy” allows us room to grow and change.
Give Yourself Some Grace
You will mess up. You will fail. There will be setbacks, roadblocks, and points where it all seems hopeless.
Be kind to yourself. Progress is sometimes slow, but remember that growth takes time, and setbacks are a normal part of the process.
Set Goals and Find Accountability
The only way to really know that you’re growing is to track your progress. Start by setting your goals (you’re familiar with SMART goals, right?).
Over time, you can look back at your previous goals and see the growth you’ve experienced. But you won’t be able to do it alone; nobody does it alone.
Surround yourself with like-minded people. Those who can hold you accountable, encourage your growth, teach, and mentor you along the way.
Come See How Others Have Done It at TEDxBillings 2025
And what better place to do that than the TEDx Billings community?
This year, we’re all about uncovering hidden potential. The speakers have brilliant insights, fantastic stories, and have transitioned from a negative, or fixed, way of thinking to tapping into the growth they always knew was within them.
They’re ready to share their experiences with you. Follow the community to stay part of the great things happening with TEDxBillings.
