Learning Styles and Mindsets: Gift Mindset versus Growth Mindset

The gifts mindset and growth mindset as seen in various individuals are easy predictors to why some people succeed and others fail.

Individuals with the "gifts mind-set" believes in themselves, their gifts and talents. They also believe they have certain weak spots but do not think they can change. They see their strengths and weaknesses as aptitudes that have been bestowed upon them and CANNOT be modified.

On the other hand, individuals with the "growth mindset" tackles every situation with the attitude that it's an opportunity for them to learn. They believe that everything is amenable to change- strengths as well as weaknesses. (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/gifts-vs-growth-what-way-go-duru-victoria)

The Gift Mindset is a concept that emphasizes the importance of approaching life with a mentality focused on giving and contributing to others. It involves cultivating a mindset that prioritizes generosity, kindness, and the willingness to share one's time, resources, and talents with others without expecting immediate or direct reciprocation.

The theory behind the Gift Mindset has been explored by various authors and philosophers, but one notable figure associated with this concept is Lewis Hyde. In his book "The Gift: Creativity and the Artist in the Modern World," Hyde delves into the idea of gifts as a form of cultural and creative exchange. He explores the notion that true gifts, whether they be artistic creations, knowledge, or other forms of generosity, circulate and enrich society in a way that transcends simple economic transactions.

Lewis Hyde's work has been influential in shaping discussions around the Gift Mindset, emphasizing the intrinsic value of giving and the interconnectedness of individuals within a community.

The Gift Mindset and Growth Mindset are two distinct concepts, each emphasizing different aspects of personal and social development. Here's a comparison between the two:

1. Focus on Personal Development:

   • Gift Mindset: Primarily emphasizes giving, contributing, and sharing with others. It focuses on the idea that individuals have unique gifts and talents that, when shared, benefit both the giver and the community.
   • Growth Mindset: Concentrates on personal development and learning. It is centered around the belief that intelligence, skills, and abilities can be developed through dedication, hard work, and perseverance.

2. Orientation Towards Others:

   • Gift Mindset: Directed outward, encouraging individuals to consider how they can positively impact others by sharing their gifts, whether those be skills, knowledge, or resources.
   • Growth Mindset: More internally focused, promoting the belief that personal growth and development are achievable through continuous effort, learning, and resilience.

3. Interconnectedness:

   • Gift Mindset: Emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals within a community. It suggests that the act of giving creates a cycle of reciprocity that benefits both the giver and the larger social context.
   • Growth Mindset: Stresses the individual's capacity for personal growth and improvement, with less emphasis on direct interpersonal connections.

4. Motivation and Feedback:

   • Gift Mindset: Motivated by a sense of contributing to others and making a positive impact. Feedback is often viewed as a way to refine and enhance one's gifts for the benefit of the community.
   • Growth Mindset: Motivated by a desire for learning and improvement. Feedback is seen as valuable input for refining skills and achieving personal goals.

5. Application Areas:

   • Gift Mindset: Often associated with creativity, community building, and the sharing of talents or resources within a cultural or social context.
   • Growth Mindset: Widely applied in educational settings, professional development, and personal achievement across various domains.

While the Gift Mindset and Growth Mindset have different emphases, they are not mutually exclusive, and individuals may adopt aspects of both mindsets in various aspects of their lives. Both concepts contribute valuable perspectives to personal and communal well-being.