Serving Bread

The July/August 2007 issue of “Fast Company” contrasts two models of leadership: growth mind-set leadership versus fixed mind-set leadership. Drawing on work done by Carol Dweck, they define a fixed mind-set as people who believe that intelligence is static. These people are contrasted to those who have a growth mind-set who believe that intelligence can be developed like a muscle.

While most people have a blend of both, we will tend to find ourselves in one camp more times than not, especially when we are pressurized situations. I find this contrast extremely helpful and appreciate Dweck’s work on the topic.

The authors of the article (Chip Heath and Dan Heath) contrast various leaders, including athletes to highlight the differences. They describe Tiger Woods as having a growth mind-set, pointing to his near religious and obsessive approach to making his game better (outside of competitive golf). They contrast Woods with Manny Ramirez of the Boston Red Sox, who may be a great hitter, but has a a “cavalier attitude” toward practice and training.

I also think of Biblical characters that highlight one of these two mind-sets. Saul, the first king of Israel, operated out of a fixed mind-set. He had little success as a leader and never allowed new contexts and learning experiences to define his leadership. He was more bent on executing his ideas rather than follow God’s ways. Contrast him to David, who had a soft heart to God’s call on his life. His experiences shaped his leadership and he allowed God to continue to develop him.

Part of my weekly reflections on leadership are a way for me to be more devoted to developing leadership as a muscle. I can point to several leadership moments where a fixed mind-set was my default rather than a growth mind-set. Reading about leadership, learning from leaders, and receiving feedback allow me to grow as a growth minded leader.

Perhaps West Point is the best example of the growth mind-set leader. The authors of the article, write that West Point develops leaders over the course of 4 years. West Point doesn’t just look for ‘natural-born leaders’, the military academy works hard to develop leadership in every one of its cadets.

Growth mind-set people put their time and energy into learning and training. They recognize the importance of weekly hours spent developing the muscle of leadership. Such time is well-spent for all of us who are in leadership positions.