Carol Dweck’s TED Talk “The Power of Believing That You Can Improve” introduces the concept of the growth mindset, and it’s one of the most powerful ideas in leadership development. Dweck explains that those who believe they can improve—who see challenges as opportunities rather than threats—tend to achieve more success.
This growth mindset is something I actively encourage during my executive coaching sessions on the golf course.
Golf, as a game, is a brilliant test of mindset. Every round brings new challenges—whether it’s mastering a tricky course, handling the weather, or recovering from a poor shot. It’s easy to feel defeated after a setback, but those who approach these challenges with a growth mindset thrive, both on the course and in their leadership roles.
On the golf course, I help leaders reframe their mistakes. Instead of seeing a missed shot as a failure, we talk about it as a learning opportunity. What went wrong? How can it be adjusted next time? This reflective process helps leaders develop resilience and adaptability, qualities that are essential in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Dweck’s growth mindset theory is directly applicable to leadership. By fostering a mindset of learning and improvement on the course, leaders leave more equipped to tackle challenges in their professional lives with confidence and optimism. Just like in golf, the path to success in leadership is about constant growth and embracing the lessons each challenge brings.
Watch Carol Dweck’s TED Talk here:
The Power of Believing That You Can Improve
