Openness and Learning Mindset: A Personal Reflection
As I journey through the Inner Development Goals course, I’ve come to see how essential Openness and a Learning Mindset are—not only as abstract ideals but as transformative forces in my own growth. Reflecting on my past, I realise that a few years ago, I held rigid views and was less open to new ideas. However, today, for me, openness encompasses more than just embracing fresh perspectives; it involves welcoming the discomfort that comes with exploring the unknown and allowing my viewpoints to be challenged. It’s a heartfelt commitment to stay curious and non-defensive, even when my beliefs feel deeply ingrained.
A Growth mindset, on the other hand, is the fuel that keeps me moving forward. It reminds me that every experience—whether I label it as success or failure—is an opportunity to grow. When I reflect on past moments, I notice that the times I’ve truly grown weren’t when things were easy or straightforward but when I leaned into questions like, “Damn, how did I end up here?” “What can I learn from this?” or “How might I approach this differently next time?”
One of the most profound lessons I’ve absorbed is that openness and learning are intertwined. When I close myself off—whether due to fear, pride, or stubbornness—I halt the learning process. But when I intentionally cultivate a mindset of curiosity ( one of my dominant character strengths), I find that even challenges feel lighter and more manageable. This shift doesn’t come naturally every day. I often need to remind myself to pause and ask: Am I approaching this with curiosity or judgment?*
This exploration has also taught me the value of vulnerability in learning. Being open often means admitting I don’t have all the answers, and that’s okay. It’s in those moments of uncertainty that I’ve found the greatest breakthroughs—whether in relationships, work, or personal understanding.
1. When was the last time you intentionally embraced openness in a situation that challenged you? How did it shape the outcome?
2. What practices or habits help you stay in a learning mindset, especially when faced with setbacks or criticism?
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Let’s grow together. 🌱
@Sel3ne
Sooo great to hear about your positive experiences in the IDG course, it is so nice to see you reflect on how putting concepts into practice has been helpful to you!
Big time relate on the importance of vulnerability and being comfortable with it, having an open mind or what I usually like to call as the "learner's" mindset!🌞
@Sel3ne
What practices or habits help you stay in a learning mindset, especially when faced with setbacks or criticism?
I don't fail myself. All that matters is that I try, and doing my best is enough. Learning takes a lot of time, and for some subjects it takes longer. Everyone is unique; human beings don't come out of a cookie cutter. So I understand that any criticism of my performance is an indicator that I need more time, and also that maybe I can try harder. If that criticism is constructive, then I accept it as an opinion but it doesn't change the fact of what I am capable of, and what my limits are.
