Beyond Personal Development Part 2: How Mindset Shapes Inclusion

Beyond Personal Development Part 2: How Mindset Shapes Inclusion

In part one we discussed how mindset shapes workplace culture. To put it simply, a fixed mindset tells us that something will never change and a growth mindset allows us to consider – and expect – change. Mindset has the potential to impact our energy on a subconscious level. For example, learning how to become in tune with emotions is a valuable skill because it builds empathy and self awareness–laying the foundation for the way we think, interact, and communicate every day. 

Let’s explore what happens when mindset contributes to bias; and how we can use that information to build better workplaces. 

When we operate from a fixed mindset, we tend to view others as equally fixed — and those assumptions are frequently shaped by stereotypes and bias. A fixed mindset tells us "this is who you are," while a growth mindset stays curious and remains open to seeing people as they truly are, and as they have the potential to become.

Consider how this plays out with generational differences: a fixed mindset might interpret any technology-related question from a Baby Boomer as a sign of resistance or inability to adapt – putting them into a box labeled “Boomers are unwilling to learn”. A growth mindset, by contrast, would pause, listen more carefully, and focus on understanding what that person actually needs — rather than assuming the answer or writing them off based on the fixed label you’ve applied.

Bias is a clear illustration of this. The human brain is wired to sort and categorize as a survival mechanism — but this same tendency leads us to divide people into those we identify with and those we don't. Because most of us hold a positive view of ourselves, that very self-image becomes a barrier to examining our own biases honestly. Even so, this examination is critical. Recognizing how we unknowingly contribute to cycles of inequity is an uncomfortable but vital process, one that requires intentional work, patience, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Check out our blog about biases in the workplace to learn more.

Moving from Fixed Mindset to Growth Mindset to Disrupt Bias

When you find yourself getting stuck in a fixed mindset, try using an “I wonder” reframe:

• “She’s always bragging about herself.” → “I wonder what she needs to feel more secure in her role here.”
• “He’s lazy.” → “I wonder what happened for him to miss those deadlines.”
• “People from that neighborhood don’t care about our work.” → “I wonder what positives we’re overlooking.”

Don’t stop there. Building a growth mindset goes beyond wondering to actually asking, deeply listening, and responding. In that process, you acknowledge the potential in others – and yourself.

We may not always succeed in rewiring our deeply ingrained thought patterns — but awareness itself is powerful and encourages growth. When we recognize our mindset and our biases, we gain the ability to make conscious, deliberate choices that interrupt the cycles of inequity affecting our workplaces, industries, and communities. 

Be gentle and offer yourself compassion on the journey of self discovery and remember to focus on progress, not perfection. 

To learn more about continuous self-improvement, check out our resources on EQ and Coaching!