I’ve started it. A bit critically.
I had already read that the book might be too detailed. That after the first hour of listening, you pretty much get it. And yes, that’s true: you quickly understand the core.
But still: by continuing to listen, something happens.
You become more immersed in the message, which sticks better.
And for those wondering: the latest edition also includes an update. So I’m glad I chose the audio version.
Would I Buy it? Would I Recommend it?
I already had the book. Did I buy it again? No.
Would I recommend it? Doubtful.
There’s a lot of repetition. Really a lot. But it does make you think. About yourself.
About how in some situations you have a fixed mindset. And in others, a growth mindset.
And, more importantly, how you can recognize and change that.
So yes: definitely a recommendation.
And the idea behind it is powerful.
What Stuck with Me the Most
The test with children. Simple, but powerful. And above all: impactful.
Two groups of children. They take a test. Both do well.
One group receives compliments like:
“You’re so smart! What a clever mind!”
They are praised for who they are.
The other group hears something very different:
“Well done! You’ve clearly worked hard!”
They are praised for what they did.
What turns out?
In the next test, the group praised for their effort performs significantly better.
The “smart” group falls behind.
The book clearly explains why that happens. And honestly: it’s true. You just feel it.
Why this Resonates with Me
I’m at the beginning of something new: raising my super grandchild.
And I want to do it well.
No, better said: I want to be the best grandpa there is.
Wait — correction: I am the super best grandpa in the world.
But I also want to approach it well. With head and heart.
And such insight gives me energy. It makes me think.
Because when it comes to parenting, we quickly make mistakes. Just out of convenience. Or because we repeat our own upbringing. Without thinking.
Conclusion?
Mindset by Carol S. Dweck: definitely a recommendation.
Not because of the style. Or the suspense.
But because of what it does to how you view learning, failing, and growing.
And especially for me: what it can mean for the next generation.
For smart kids. And hard-working kids.
For super grandchildren.
And for super grandpas.