Ready to Learn: Developing a Positive Learning Mindset

Top tips for positive learning

To develop a positive learning mindset, or simply to target long-standing negative habits that are preventing you from enjoying learning to the fullest, try:

1. Being conscious about learning. Actively look for opportunities to learn, grow and develop, at home, work or socially 
2. Setting yourself some learning goals. Remind yourself of them on a regular basis.
3. Learning at least one new thing every day. This shouldn’t be for a specific purpose or to aid career development but should simply be part of your day-to-day life.
4. Being present in the moment. Notice and pay attention to other people and to the world around you. Pay attention to how you respond to challenges and surprises.
5. Actively seeking feedback from others. Ask for feedback from family, friends and colleagues on a regular basis. Use that feedback to improve.
6. Remembering it’s okay to make mistakes. But don’t dwell on them: acknowledge they happened, then turn them into opportunities to learn, grow, and improve.
7. Experimenting! Step outside of your comfort zone and be open to new ideas and experiences. View challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.
8. Reflecting on your experiences. When you can, take a few minutes to reflect on what you have learned. The more honest you are with your progress, the more likely you are to improve.
9. Learning from others. Closely observe and listen to others. What can you learn from them?
10. Being kind to yourself! Don’t open yourself up to constant self-criticism, and don’t be too hard on yourself. Take breaks and learn in manageable chunks.
11. Seeking opportunities for your own learning and development. You are responsible for what you’re learning and when, so choose things that you’re interested in.