Appendices for BF202 Critical Reflection Essay

Appendix 1: Learning notes from “Recognising Skills and Preferences: Mindset”

The mindset of an individual affects their lifestyle, as mindset = attitude, values, and beliefs.

Mindset can then turn into habit, as an effort to make sense of the world around you

One’s mind then selects specific information that is most relevant information to previous
experiences. This thus creates segments of self-defining logic, that protects one’s own self of identity
and self-confidence

This is called confirmation bias: the recalling of memories that enforces your beliefs, rather than
challenging them. This, however, creates a self-limiting mindset.

However, this does not mean than one is not able to change one’s mindset. The human mind is more
malleable than we have thought, whether this is a good thing, or a bad thing is dependent on the
person and the situation.

Brain elasticity, a concept that explains how neurons in the brain change depending on one’s
experiences. This concept thus encourages the rewiring of our minds essentially, creating a new
mindset

Prior to rewiring one’s mindset though, one must understand the differences in the three types of
mindset: fixed, growth and benefit.

1. Fixed mindset
- Symbolised by the everyday expert that focuses on what they know
- The fixed mindset means that one believes that one’s abilities, intelligence and talent are
fixed in place
- Tend to be rigged in their thinking, seeking perfection, and avoiding failure
- Tries to hide mistakes, engages in self-depreciation, and handles failures very badly
2. Growth mindset
- Focused on how to improve what they already know
- Recognises that abilities, intelligence, and talents are developable
- Recognises challenges and failures as an opportunity to improve, while always looking to
learn from others
3. Benefit mindset
- Focused on understanding on why people do the things they do
- Uses their development to bring greater value to people, bringing greater wellbeing to
themselves and others

Based on the definition of each mindset, it is quite simple to infer that I possess a fixed mindset.
Reflecting upon this realisation, there are numerous examples in which I can recall that exhibits the
behaviour or characteristics of a fixed mindset.
Appendix 2: Learning notes from “Understanding desirable skills: Is attitude more important than
skill?”

Some consider both to be equally important, though a healthy balance of the two is preferred among
some.

Skills can be trained, however some claim that attitude is something is one is born with, contrary to
the theory of the growth mindset. Although this statement itself is contradictory with the theory of a
growth mindset, the main point is that skills are something one can develop and continue to improve
upon.

However, ultimately, a good attitude is valued as some associate a good attitude with motivation,
drive, and work ethic.

Some believe that the attitude of a person affects their passion and energy, which may be true in
regard to the growth mindset theory. As a growth mindset is characterized by the desire for constant
improvement.

From Emma Jane's statement, it’s evident that she values an attitude that urges one to constantly
improve themselves, whether this is true learning a new skill or information. This statement fully
describes the characteristics of a growth mindset. Consequently, we can infer that a fixed mindset is
not as desirable as a fixed mindset does seek to improve due to the belief that one's intelligence,
values and attitude are all unchangeable.

Skills are undeniably still highly valued across a number of companies; however, some believe that
skills are ultimately a second to attitude.

An individual may not have the most industry specific skillset, but the right attitude will allow
him/her the opportunity to develop those skills.

Some believe that the right attitude is not only important due to its effects one's work ethic and
motivations, but ultimately how one interacts with a team. An altruistic behaviour you could say,
putting the team or company first as you continue to work together to achieve a shared vision or
goal.

So, from the responses of the interviewees, its evident that a fixed mindset is not as desired as a
growth mindset. Though one must consider whether this is predominantly a western perspective, as
such an emphasis on mindset may not be seen in the East.
Appendix 3: Learning notes from “Career management: What does investing in your career actually
mean?”

A career is something that evolves and develops over time, and for it to be successful, one needs to
continuously put time and effort into it.

Some ways to invest in your career are:

1. Reflect
Self-awareness is important, however, an individual with a fixed mindset may not be capable of
actually reflecting on themselves. As such individuals are ultimately arrogant and only choose
information that conforms or reinforces their current identity. So, though reflection may be
important, one must first understand whether they have a fixed mindset or a growth mindset.
Reflection is important as one can then set goals for themselves to achieve. However, an individual
with a fixed mindset may not be capable of setting such goals, as an individual with a fixed mindset is
inclined to avoid such a challenge. This may be because of arrogance or fear

2. Learn
Career investment also means seeking out learning opportunities. However, this once again applies
only to individuals with a growth mindset, as an individual with a fixed mindset is not inclined to
seek out such opportunities.

3. Build relationships
A strong network of people is valuable to one’s career development. As one continues to widen their
connections, there may be more opportunities that arise in the future.

4. Cultivate your personal brand

One should continuously put effort to ensure that their personal brand is memorable and cohesive
to other people. A more memorable and cohesive personal brand means that people will have a
clearer understanding of who you are and more likely to consider you for future career development
opportunities. Additionally, people may be more confident in reaching out to you for collaborations
or partnerships.
Though a fixed mindset may not necessarily be attributed with a negative personal brand, the lack of
willingness of an individual with a fixe mindset to change their attitude or behaviour may severely
limit their opportunities in the future.

5. Talk to people

Engaging on conversations with different people can allow one to obtain a different perspective
though feedback, criticism, or feedback.
However, an individual with a fixed mindset is incapable of engaging in such conversations, due to
the propensity of such individuals to react negatively to any form of criticism, feedback or advise
that contradicts their own personal beliefs or value.
 6. Find a mentor

Finding a mentor allows one to obtain a wide array of knowledge and resources. However, the
intrinsic characteristics of an individual with a fixed mindset prevents such an occurrence. As such
individuals limit the information, they absorb to those that only enforces their current ideals, beliefs,
or values.

7. Take initiative

The key to growth is constantly seeking and taking the opportunities presented to you, so for one to
advance their career they must do the same. However, this is once again limited to individuals with a
growth mindset, as an induvial with a fixed mindset is not inclined to seek such opportunities.

8. Prioritise well-being

A successful career is also about balance, as a lack of personal well-being only serves to impede one
from further advancing their career.

Conclusion:

If we go by the inherent characteristics of a fixed mindset, career development is evidently more

easily accomplishable when one has a growth mindset. Conversely, though an individual with a fixed
mindset may have opportunities to develop their career as well, they ultimately will have less
opportunities in companions to an individual with a growth mindset.
Appendix 4: Overall Learnings from the Courses

The first lesson I learnt was the concept of a fixed and growth mindset. Prior to reading Carol
Dweck’s theory of mindset, I was of the opinion that an individual’ attitude and behaviour were
inherent traits that were determined at birth. This also applied to one’s abilities and skills, much like
the metaphorical saying that is, “the cards one is dealt with in life”. However, such a mindset was
simply limiting myself from even attempting to change. So, the most valuable lesson I have learnt,
was actually the realization of what my mindset is and how it was limiting myself in so many ways.

The second lesson I learnt was that as of now, if I don’t change my mindset, I am simply limiting my
future options for career development. If I plan to develop my career here in the West, namely the
United Kingdom, then I will eventually need to adopt a growth mindset. Naturally, I am not planning
to completely change my attitude, behaviour, and values to match those of the people here in the
United Kingdom, as I ultimately value my identity as a Malaysian first and foremost. However, I do
recognise that the characteristics of a growth mindset, mainly the desire to seek opportunities to
develop oneself, are of great benefit to an individual both academically and professionally.

The final lesson I learnt was that as a student, I must begin to invest in my career now. Admittedly, I
believe that I have been taking my time here at university much to laxly. Reflecting upon this issue, I
think I have yet to fully realise that very soon, once I have graduated from university, I will enter the
workforce. Yet here I am, taking my time and having fun with my friends. So, through these courses, I
have learnt that one shouldn’t leave their career to chance, and that one should invest in their career
whenever possible.