Growth Mindset

The growth mind set is and should be one of the tools most used by people internationally everyday of our lives. As a kid growing up, I struggled in school.I was never the most popular. I was never the brightest either and switched schools nine times before I got to high school. My parents were just trying to do what was best to help me. What we didn't know was other life experiences were hindering my development and this did not come to fruition until my senior year in high school. However, this struggle I had in school taught me to have great resiliency and just recently helped me discover my dream profession.

My parents faith and teachings taught me to work hard and never give up. So, I listened and have had their support every day of my life. I first went to Friends University to study religion and philosophy, but I didn't like it. I felt further from God than I ever had before and life just wasn't making sense. So, I transferred to OSU. While I was there I took statistics. There were five exams, but I'll only tell about a few. My first exam I got an 80 and my second one I got a 33. My mindset right then was, "my worth is not found in the approval of my peers or grades." I was content because I knew I was not stupid. I just was not at the level I needed to be YET. So, I studied hard and that third exam I got another 80! I had gotten back up and received my first C in college, but I didn't care! I have performed higher academically every single year in college. Lastly, I transferred here to OU. I just got my first 4.0 last semester and keep improving. My bit of advice for a growth mindset is do what you need to do and realize no one or thing defines us except ourselves. Now, I will talk about one of my two jobs.

Where I work is probably where the growth mindset exists the least. Everyday I go to work and I perform at a high level when filming. I kid you not; I have never heard a positive comment (praise) from my bosses ever. All they do is complain and are mad at the world all of the time. This does not make me want to do a good job. My old mentor shared something I hope all who read this take to heart. He said, "Praise motivates and not needed or destructive criticism kills." It is 100% true. If you praise someone in the little things they will perform better than being torn down. It sounds obvious, but how many times have you received praise today? Our culture is one that is fueled by results, not the process of development.

This is my 6th and final year in college and I plan to become a professional actor on camera. I feel I have embraced the growth mindset all my life and I hope this was inspiring to whoever reads this. Let it be known, that I would not be where I am today without the guidance and love of my family. Most importantly, I would not be where I am today without God's help. Push the boundaries people and embrace challenge.

Here is a pic of some experience I would not have had if I did not follow my passions and backed down from challenges.

(Image Information:Pic by Roberta Luton, first OU game 2014)

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