Fixed mindset expects instant results. It tells us that if we aren’t immediately good at something, it’s because we lack the talent or capacity. It tells us to give up without really trying. A fixed mindset feeds the inner gremlins of not good enough any time we make a mistake or things don’t turn out perfectly.

But, we have to be willing to be bad at things if we ever want to get good at them. And that takes courage and effort. It means cultivating the willingness to bear the discomfort (and occasional indignity) of being a newb, being a learner, not being the best.

But it’s such a beautiful and kind and generous way to hold ourselves.

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This is a hybrid episode where I read a post that I wrote for the website and talk about it/offer commentary. To read the original post or transcript of the commentary, visit https://settlingisbullshit.com/2025/08/13/the-insidious-grip-of-a-fixed-mindset/