My decision process is based on a combination of perspectives like logic, creativity, probability. If two people are presented with the same problem and their solution is different then is the decision process responsible? My conclusion is yes and no. How’s that for decisive?
I have simplified the whole process of decision making by reminding myself the role that “mindset” has in my life. It has made all the difference when it comes to my success and moving forward. It is your mindset that determines your decisions. For example - when you really wanted something as a child did you make a point of noticing what mood your Mom or Dad were in before asking them. That would make a difference.
The Oxford dictionary definition for mindset is “the established set of attitudes held by someone.” If I break the definition down further I realized that “attitudes” are basically nothing more than perspectives. Mindset is how your perspectives are being put to use. You will get a different result in making decisions depending on the mindset you are in and how you perceive everything outside yourself.
Two Types Of Mindsets
The fixed mindset and the growth mindset. It has been said that creating artwork is an excellent way of developing a growth mindset. I tend to agree when you look at what growth mindset is classified as. A growth mindset is someone that usually sees only the positive outcomes from a decision. If their decision lead to a failure then they might perceive it as a learning experience.
A fixed mindset tends to be the opposite of growth. Someone with a fixed mindset has limitations for themselves. By setting limitations they are usually playing it safe and avoiding failure or the possible pain from the unknown.
Artwork Heartache
Artists usually put their heart into their artwork and they are vulnerable to exposing themselves to criticism. Something personal to them is out in the open for everyone to comment. An Artist is not keeping their feelings safe but putting them at risk of being hurt when they show artwork. I personally did not like to make it known I was in the room when my artwork was being shown at an exhibition for that reason. I have experienced that if you have a positive attitude then you will consider the ugly criticism as being constructive and cultivate the compliments to help you continue a growth mindset. One of my favourite artists Salvador Dali once said “Have no fear of perfection - you’ll never reach it”. I find myself saying this when I fear I can’t do something, whether it is art or making a decision. It comforts me to know that a talented artist like Dali was not focused on perfection.
Neither mindsets make you a good or bad person. A growth mindset definitely opens doors for success in your life and the world seems brighter. Your fears are what hold you back from having a more successful life in every way. Don’t limit yourself but grow instead.
Top Image - The Thinker (Le Penseur), this is a plaster version of a famous sculpture created by Auguste Rodin in 1903
Second Image - Painted in oil on canvas, ”Persistence of Memory”, 1931 by Salvador Dali