Developing a Relationship Growth Mindset

Picture of Written by Tina & Michael LeBlanc

Written by Tina & Michael LeBlanc

Psychologist Carol Dweck introduced the concept of a Growth Mindset, which is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and view mistakes as opportunities for learning. We believe this concept can also be applied to and improve your relationships.

About the Authors

Tina and Michael LeBlanc are, co-founders of Better Yourself 365, Licensed Counselling Therapists, Authors of relationship books, and a happily married couple. All of their services are tailored to busy, overstretched couples. Tina and Michael help couples work efficiently as a team by teaching them the essential habits to create a strong, loving connection

The concept of a Growth Mindset was introduced by Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck in her book ‘Mindset’. Dweck’s framework suggests that a Growth Mindset enables individuals to bounce back from setbacks, perceive mistakes as learning opportunities, and steadily advance towards their objectives with optimism and consistency.

We believe this also translates to relationships. In fact, here at Better Yourself 365, we formulated ten relationship growth-mindset beliefs that serve as guiding principles to keep us on the right path. We will share 3, in this blog post for now. 

We encourage you to write down these beliefs and put them on your refrigerator or next to your bed to help as daily affirmations. This visual cue serves as a constant reminder to maintain a growth-oriented perspective. 

1. Love is a Journey

While we understand that many of us have dreams we are working towards the future, the most important is the present moment. The process of growth and development within our relationship holds utmost significance which is happening NOW. It’s about cherishing the journey towards where we want to be rather than fixating on the destination.

2. Daily Progress and Consistency

Another essential belief is the emphasis on daily progress and the value of consistency in our actions. Often, slow and steady efforts contribute significantly to the longevity and fulfillment of a relationship. Daily commitment and repetition form the bedrock upon which strong and enduring relationship habits are built.

3. Embracing ‘YET’

‘We are not where we want to be, YET’.

The term ‘yet’ holds tremendous power. When used in statements about our relationship aspirations, it gives us hope. By adding ‘yet’ to our statements, we acknowledge that while we might not be where we desire in our relationship, we are actively progressing toward that desired state. It serves as a beacon of encouragement and positivity, framing our journey as an ongoing process.

“We’re not as connected as we wish to be YET, but we’re committed to reaching that point.”

“I might not take as many emotional risks as I aspire to YET, but I’m working on it.”

“I’m not where I want to be with my health YET, but I’m dedicated to making progress.”

Integrating this word into conversations about the changes we aim for within our relationship frames a mindset with continuous improvement and hope.

Remember, the journey of a relationship is characterized by growth, and these beliefs guide us towards a more fulfilling and evolving partnership. We encourage you to add this word, GROWTH, to your vocabulary when you are discussing the changes you are working on together.

 
Couple embracing, woman holding flowers next to ocean

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