Growth vs. Fixed Mindset: Why It Shapes Your Progress More Than You Think

In training, we often focus on technique, planning, nutrition, and consistency. Yet one factor influences results even more: our mindset. Whether we approach training with a growth mindset or a fixed mindset plays a major role in how quickly and effectively we improve.

Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

Fixed mindset assumes abilities are set and unchangeable.
Typical thoughts: “I’m not built for this.” “I’ll never learn the technique.”
The result is avoidance of challenges, frustration, and stagnation.

Growth mindset is based on the belief that abilities can be developed.
Typical thoughts: “It’s difficult, but I’ll get better.” “A mistake is information.”
This leads to higher motivation, resilience, and long-term progress.

Why a Growth Mindset Matters

• The brain adapts just like a muscle — through training.
• Discomfort becomes part of the process rather than a barrier.
• Failure isn’t the end; it’s feedback that shows the next step.

Growth Happens in Discomfort

I often tell my clients that real growth happens in discomfort. When we face and overcome obstacles, that’s the exact moment our mind strengthens, learns, and expands what we believe we’re capable of.

And the true reward comes afterward — when we finally overcome the challenge. That’s when we feel joy, pride, and a deeper sense of self-respect.

I also understand people who often give up. It’s human. But giving up repeatedly leads to something deeper: losing respect for yourself and struggling to feel good about who you are. It’s not a flaw in character — it’s simply a mindset that can be changed.

How to Train a Growth Mindset

• Replace “I can’t” with “I just can’t yet.”
• Focus on the process instead of the final number.
• Treat mistakes as data, not as failure.
• Use visualization to prime your mind for success.
• Set small, achievable steps that build momentum.

Thoughts That Influenced Me

My friend Kuba often says: “No one promised you tomorrow.”
It’s a powerful reminder that the best time to start is always today.

A colleague of mine says: “Your past doesn’t define you. Your present does.”
I fully agree. Our past shapes us, but it doesn’t determine who we are right now. Our current decisions and actions are what truly define us.

Conclusion

A growth mindset isn’t a talent — it’s a skill. And like strength or technique, it can be trained. If you learn to embrace discomfort, use mistakes as information, and commit to the process, progress will come more consistently and often faster than expected.

Vladimir Veverka
Personal trainer and nutrition consultant