Growing up within a Filipino Community, I was raised with more limited Mindset rather than a Growth Mindset. How the only way to make it is to have a good paying stable job with benefits. That was we were led to believe as a kid and once you've achieved that, there was nothing more. I really didn't want that but somehow that mindset overcame me and became a dominate thought. Once I achieved "That Success" I got really bored fast because I didn't find it as challenging once I got good at it. Not know any better, I still continued to have that limiting belief that this was the way to go and it SUCKED.
The feeling was mutual in my gut, I knew I wasn't fulfilled with what I was doing and felt that I could be doing more, but didn't really know how. So I took it upon myself to get educated in personal growth & development. I didn't tell anyone immediately what I was doing and just focused on what I was learning. It was really fascinating on how the mind worked and learned some lessons along the way.
In this Blog, I want to show you some lessons on how I transformed my Old Filipino Colonial Mindset into a Growth Mindset. We'll dive into some interesting concepts on Growth mindset and how it can help you get over not only a Filipino Colonial Mindset, but any sort of Limiting Mindset or belief that is holding you back from unlocking your true potential. Ways to help you achieve greater success in all aspect in life.
Quick Understanding of the Filipino Colonial Mindset
The Filipino colonial mindset is a relic of the past, rooted in the historical colonization that the country endured. It has left behind deep-seated beliefs of inferiority, helplessness, and the fear of taking risks. This mindset has most likely held a lot of us back from pursuing our real dreams and reaching true potential.
The Power of a Growth Mindset
A growth mindset, on the other hand, is the key to unlocking our inner strength and abilities. Quoted by inspirational Author James Allen,
“A man’s mind may be likened to a garden, which may be intelligently cultivated or allowed to run wild; but whether cultivated or neglected, it must, and will, bring forth. If no useful seeds are put into it, then an abundance of useless weed-seeds will fall therein, and will continue to produce their kind.”
The Growth Mindset is adaptable when used correctly.
Below are some techniques I used to when I steadily became more aware of my thoughts with some practice that helped me adapt to a Growth Mindset that I still continue to develop.
Identifying Limiting Beliefs
To transition from a colonial mindset to a growth mindset, it's crucial to identify and challenge our limiting beliefs. These beliefs often act as invisible barriers, preventing us from reaching our goals. Acknowledging these beliefs is the first step towards breaking free from their grip.
Example:
Telling yourself that you can't pick up that phone and make that call cause you don't want to be that annoying salesman. No one created that belief but you. Because you believe that you are annoying, you won't pick up that phone and call. Once you are aware of that thought, quickly question yourself as to why you think that way.
Embracing Change and Resilience
Transitioning to a growth mindset requires embracing change and building resilience. It's essential to understand that failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow. By developing resilience, we can bounce back stronger from setbacks and use them as stepping stones to success.
Example:
With that same thought about the phone call, instead ask yourself why you think you're annoying? Then ask yourself, why can't I think I'm awesome and think start to think what it's like to make a sales call easily. Start imagining yourself dialling that number with a smile on your face excited to tell your customer something awesome and they are interested. Also play out all worst case scenarios, what if they say no? Write down how you'll feel and ask yourself why on that too.
Cultivating a Love for Learning
In the journey towards a growth mindset, cultivating a love for learning is paramount. Every experience, whether positive or negative, holds lessons that can propel us forward. Embrace curiosity and continuous learning to stay open to new possibilities and ideas.
Example:
Now that you've gotten all that out of the way. Take action and pick up that phone. Every call is a learning experience and you'll know that getting a know is NOT the end of the world. It'll start to hurt less. These are moments that you can start building confidence and character. You can start experimenting with other strategies and find out what works best for you.
Nurturing a Positive Mindset
A positive mindset is the cornerstone of a growth mindset. By reframing negative thoughts and focusing on the positive aspects of challenges, we can train our minds to see opportunities in every situation. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness can further enhance our ability to maintain a positive outlook on life.
Example:
With some practice, picking up the phone gets easier and you'll find you can automatically call someone with ease and in a more positive way. Start telling yourself that you a great a cold calling and people appreciate conversations with you. Keep on thinking that there's always a way to figure things out and in a positive way.
Setting Goals and Taking Action
Goals give us direction and purpose, allowing us to channel our efforts towards meaningful achievements. In adopting a growth mindset, set realistic and achievable goals, and break them down into actionable steps. Taking consistent action towards these goals will build momentum and fuel your motivation.
Example:
Once you get good at something, you can now use it to make goals for yourself. Let's say you want to up your sales and now you need to find out how many calls you'll need to make to earn more income. Don't forget to write it down and get excited about your goals.
Overcoming Fear of Failure
Fear of failure is a common barrier to growth and success. To embrace a growth mindset, we must reframe failure as a stepping stone towards improvement. Understand that even the most successful individuals faced failures on their journey to greatness. Embrace failure as an essential part of the learning process.
Example:
If something doesn't work it, that's no excuse to put it away and stop trying. Failure is a gauge to help us find success. There are no failures in life, only lessons. Take action on things and take audit of every situation that may have attributed to that outcome. Ask yourself, what could I have done better to make gotten the result I wanted. Always keep in mind these are a lessons.
Seeking Inspiration and Mentorship
Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who embody the growth mindset. Seek inspiration from their journeys and learn from their experiences. Additionally, consider finding a mentor who can guide you and provide valuable insights along the way.
Example:
Having a good mentor/coach is a great way to find success in the most effective way. They've already been through it and will guide you to avoid making those same mistakes they've made and will also help you retain that information so you can start applying it on your own faster.
Celebrating Small Wins
As you progress towards a growth mindset, celebrate each small win and accomplishment. Acknowledging your efforts and achievements will reinforce positive behaviours and motivate you to keep moving forward.
Example:
A wins a win no matter what. Even though you felt you can do better, celebrate what you've accomplished. Even if you get a no, at least you picked up the phone and took action. Even holding off from eating that awesome sugary snack for a minute is something to celebrate. Seek out the good no matter how small or big the accomplishment.
Transforming Relationships
Our relationships play a significant role in shaping our mindset. Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you, encouraging your growth. Limit exposure to negative influences that can hinder your progress.
Example:
You'll find that when. you get good at something, especially what others deem too hard or difficult (ie Cold Calling), especially in the Filipino Community, they seem to get jealous and will try to bring you down. Try to avoid them and focus on others that are doing the same thing you are. People who are also on the Growth Mindset spectrum.
Embracing Self-Compassion
The journey towards a growth mindset is not without its challenges. Embrace self-compassion and be gentle with yourself when faced with setbacks. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would extend to a friend facing similar circumstances.
Example:
Along the way in life, we somehow started thinking we aren't worthy enough for our dreams and are too hard on ourselves for whatever reason. How would you talk to your best friend when they're in a situation? Chances are not the same way you'd talk to yourself. You also should be more aware of loving yourself and know that you too are human. Self Forgiveness is a beautiful tool.
Conclusion
Transforming your old Filipino colonial mindset into a growth mindset is a powerful journey of self-discovery and personal growth. By identifying and challenging limiting beliefs, embracing change and resilience, nurturing a love for learning, and setting actionable goals, you can unlock your full potential and achieve remarkable success.
Remember, a growth mindset is not a destination but a lifelong commitment to continuous improvement. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your true potential.