GNT #079: Stop Chasing Genius. Aim for This.

read time: 4 minutes
 

We all want to look good and be recognized for our talents.

That's only natural.

Maybe we want our prospective buyer to see us as the expert to help them.
Or our manager to see us as doing a good job in our work.
Or our kids' teacher to see us as a great parent.

And we want to see ourselves in that positive light too!

However, the desire to be perceived a certain way can sometimes hinder our actual development.

In today's newsletter, we're exploring the genius vs. growth mindset and how to foster a positive self-perception without becoming overly obsessed with appearances - a path that can actually stunt our growth.

Let's dig in.

Perception of Success

We often think success is born from intrinsic genius. It's not.

Take J.K. Rowling. She didn’t just conjure Harry Potter out of thin air. She actively sought feedback.

When Rowling was writing early drafts, she showed her work to others, seeking critique over praise. Her editor, Barry Cunningham, pushed her to rework chapters, add new elements, and challenged her to cut parts she loved - all to improve the story.

Rowling also collaborates with Stephen King. King praises her storytelling, and she admires his mastery of suspense. They know even the best benefit from external perspectives.

The same approach can help us.

Genius vs. Growth

As psychologist Mary C. Murphy writes in her book "Cultures of Growth," we all have these two different mindsets within us -- and they drastically impact our behavior.

Genius Mindset

In a genius mindset, abilities are seen as fixed. You either have it, or you don’t. And if you don’t, tough luck.

Obsessed with optics, we want to be perceived as smart, talented, or capable. This focus on proving ourselves leads to avoiding feedback and fear of exposure as... not a genius.

Murphy’s research shows that those in genius mode avoid risks and stick to what’s worked before.

Growth Mindset

In a growth mindset, abilities are expandable. The capacity to learn and develop is limitless.

We focus on cultivating skills and seek feedback to improve. People in growth mode are more creative and flexible. When things go wrong, they dust themselves off and look for the lesson.

Embracing Challenge

Consider two language learners.

The genius mindset learner sticks to basics to impress. Their confidence is boosted, but their skills can stall.

The growth mindset learner tackles challenging materials and conversations with native speakers. Mistakes are made, discomfort happens, but fluency improves.

Balancing Expertise and Growth

There are good reasons we sometimes lean into a genius mindset, even knowing growth is more valuable.

In our jobs or businesses, we need to commit to outcomes. During critical presentations or performances, showing polished expertise is important.

According to "Cultures of Growth," in high-stakes situations where confidence and mastery are essential, a genius mindset can be really important. 

The good news? We have the choice.

Growth is harder, but if you keep reminding yourself the goal is to learn - not just look good - it gets easier over time.

Strategies to Foster Positive Self-Perception AND Growth:

• Focus on Internal Validation: Celebrate your progress and achievements instead of seeking external praise. Idea: try reflecting on your growth and milestones through journaling.
• Seek Constructive Feedback: Don’t look for approval. Ask for specific feedback that helps you improve. Frame feedback sessions as opportunities to learn and grow.
• Set Growth-Oriented Goals: Shift from performance-based goals (e.g., getting a promotion) to learning-based ones (e.g., mastering a new skill). Focus on development, not validation.
• Embrace Vulnerability: Accept that mistakes and imperfection are part of learning. Lead by example. Share your challenges and what you’ve learned.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the kindness and understanding you’d offer a friend. Acknowledge your efforts and progress, even if they’re not perfect.

By focusing on improvement rather than appearances, we build a healthier self-perception that fuels real progress - and life satisfaction.

Takeaway

We can all shine in confident moments of genius, but don’t get too comfortable there.

Even the masters wear different hats.

Are there areas in your life where you’re clinging to a genius mindset?

What specific steps can you take today to embrace challenges and seek feedback?

Growing with you each week,

-CK

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See you next week!

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