Change starts from within. When we renew our minds, and shift our thinking, we begin to see the world differently. We become more hopeful, more resilient, and more open to growth.
The theme for this week is MINDSET, and I would like you to pay attention to this quote from Maya Angelou, an American writer, poet and activist. She said:
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Mindset is the way you think, the way you see yourself, the way you interpret the world around you, and the way you approach challenges that come your way.
As the theme of our assembly reminds us:
“A changed mindset is often the first step toward positive personal growth.”
A fixed mindset says, “I’m either good at this or I’m not.”
A growth mindset says, “I can get better with effort and practice.”
Maybe you are struggling with Maths. A fixed mindset will tell you, “I’m just not a Maths person, I can’t do it.”
However, a growth mindset says, “I may not get it yet, but if I persevere, I’ll improve.”
That small shift in thinking can change everything. You start asking questions, attending extra lessons, and using online resources.
Over time, your marks improve, not because you have suddenly become a genius, but because you believed that you could grow and get better.
Your mindset can impact on your relationships too. Maybe you’ve had an argument with a friend or family member. A fixed mindset might say, “they’ll never change”, but a growth mindset says, “people can learn and grow, and maybe we can talk through this and find some common ground”. This kind of mindset opens the door to better and stronger relationships.
Your mindset affects how you respond to failure, how you handle success, and how you treat others. It’s the foundation of your personal growth whether it is growth academically, emotionally or socially.
We can all change our mindset, and at the start of this week, please consider these 3 simple steps:
- Challenge your negative thoughts – when you hear yourself say “I can’t do it” add the word “yet.” Your self-talk becomes “I just can’t do it yet”.
- Remember to acknowledge and celebrate your effort, not just your results. Personal growth takes time, and every step forward counts as progress.
- Surround yourself with positivity. Your environment influences your mindset, so choose friends, music, and social media that uplift you.
In closing, remember this:
- You are not stuck.
- You are not defined by your past mistakes or your current struggles.
- You have the power to grow, to improve, and to become better, and it all starts with a changed mindset.
A changed mindset is the first step toward positive personal growth.
Pro Aris et Focis
Mrs J Finnie
Senior Deputy Headmaster: Academics