Ask the Author: Dan Allbaugh
Answered Questions (1)
Dan Allbaugh
I was inspired by own boys two boys to develop within them a growth mindset. When they say, “I can’t do it”, I always add a “yet”.
Research shows that children who believe that success lies with the genetically blessed are quicker to give up, believing that if they can't do something because they aren't smart enough, creative enough, good enough, or whatever enough. Children who have a growth mindset are more likely to keep working hard towards a goal, believing that all that stands between them and success is the right amount of effort. My oldest son struggles to take on new activities because he is afraid he will fail. But the good news is having a growth mindset is both a trait and a skill. This book attempts to influence that skill.
Reflecting on my life, a fixed mindset was unknowingly something I struggled with growing up and it influenced my behavior as youth which impacted my life as an adult. I tended towards the path of least resistance and chose ‘easier’ subjects in school because I thought getting an ‘A’ was the important thing. My belief was that success was dependent on how smart and I interpreted difficulty as confirmation I wasn’t quite smart enough. This mindset eroded my motivation, wore down my love of learning and restricted my potential. I don't have 'technical skills' to pursue some jobs that interest me because of the risks I was unwilling to take in college. Only as adult I realize how important grit is. I wish I had more of it sooner in life.
Grit is a combination of passion and perseverance, a belief that failure can be overcome. It’s a willingness to conquer challenges, instead of avoid them. Grit is a driver of achievement and success, independent and beyond what talent and intelligence contribute. Without grit, talent may be nothing more than unmet potential. So I’ll tell you the same thing I tell my kids. If there is something you aspire for, set a goal and you can do it. You will no doubt have challenges along the way but your response to those challenges is more important the obstacle you face. I believe in you.
Research shows that children who believe that success lies with the genetically blessed are quicker to give up, believing that if they can't do something because they aren't smart enough, creative enough, good enough, or whatever enough. Children who have a growth mindset are more likely to keep working hard towards a goal, believing that all that stands between them and success is the right amount of effort. My oldest son struggles to take on new activities because he is afraid he will fail. But the good news is having a growth mindset is both a trait and a skill. This book attempts to influence that skill.
Reflecting on my life, a fixed mindset was unknowingly something I struggled with growing up and it influenced my behavior as youth which impacted my life as an adult. I tended towards the path of least resistance and chose ‘easier’ subjects in school because I thought getting an ‘A’ was the important thing. My belief was that success was dependent on how smart and I interpreted difficulty as confirmation I wasn’t quite smart enough. This mindset eroded my motivation, wore down my love of learning and restricted my potential. I don't have 'technical skills' to pursue some jobs that interest me because of the risks I was unwilling to take in college. Only as adult I realize how important grit is. I wish I had more of it sooner in life.
Grit is a combination of passion and perseverance, a belief that failure can be overcome. It’s a willingness to conquer challenges, instead of avoid them. Grit is a driver of achievement and success, independent and beyond what talent and intelligence contribute. Without grit, talent may be nothing more than unmet potential. So I’ll tell you the same thing I tell my kids. If there is something you aspire for, set a goal and you can do it. You will no doubt have challenges along the way but your response to those challenges is more important the obstacle you face. I believe in you.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more