![]() ![]() If you mistakenly believe that your capabilities derive from DNA and destiny, rather than practice and perseverance, then you operate with what Dweck calls a “fixed mindset” rather than a “growth mindset.” Our parents and teachers exert a big influence on which mindset we adopt-and that mindset, in turn, has a profound impact on how we learn and which paths we take in life. Here is Dweck’s thesis: Our genes influence our intelligence and talents, but these qualities are not fixed at birth. And in the years since, Dweck and her research have helped my foundation colleagues and me understand more about the attitudes and habits that allow some students to persevere in school despite big challenges. ![]() Mindset first came to my attention a few years ago in a fascinating invention session on education with my friend Nathan Myhrvold, similar to the sessions Malcolm Gladwell described in his article “ In the Air: Who says big ideas are rare?” Dweck’s research had a big impact on our thinking that day. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success (2006), by the Stanford psychologist Dr. But I also like to revisit older books that feel especially important or relevant. Many of the books I review on Gates Notes are recent releases, because I figure people are generally more interested in hearing about newer works. As such, I read a lot of books-usually more than 50 a year. Even as my glasses have gotten smaller and hopefully cooler over the years, I am still a proud member of Nerd Nation. ![]()
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