Mindset
-DA,
Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity is a term that refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt as a result of experience. There are a lot of ways to increase neuroplasticity and use it to your advantage and here are a few taken from Verywell Mind
- Enriching Your Environment - some examples are learning a new language, learning how to play an instrument, traveling, creating art, reading.
- Getting plenty of rest - practicing good sleep hygiene, developing a consistent sleep schedule and creating an environment that contributes to good sleep.
- Exercising Regularly - getting regular physical activity.
This is another resource - Healthline - in addition those listed above, this was at the top of their list.
- Play video games - improves motor coordination, visual recognition and spatial navigation, memory and reaction time, reasoning, decision making, and problem-solving skills.
The Growth Mindset
Mindset is a person's way of thinking, it's a set of beliefs that shape how you make sense of the world and yourself. Having a growth mindset means that your abilities can be developed over time through effort and persistence.
I really loved how Carson Byblow shared his struggles of having a fixed mindset and how he beat it but most importantly how he recognises that we have to consistently work towards beating it - The Mindset of a Champion
My learning plan and strategies
I turned 40 a few months ago and have been doubting myself a little on whether a change in career at this stage in life is a sensible idea. Understanding neuroplasticity gives me the reassurance I need - note to self: I am capable of learning web development and have the potential to be very good at it. It's great that I'm halfway in as I already have the hunger to learn. It's maintaining a growth mindset that will always be a work in progress and it will be especially tougher when the workload increases or when the challenges get harder.
The one thing that I usually take for granted is point 2 above - getting plenty of rest. Taking multiple mini short breaks is definitely better than stopping when the sun has set 7 hours ago or when I can no longer feel my legs - this is something I have proven but have yet to truly embrace.
Speaking of “yet”, I've learned that this is a very powerful three-letter word and didn't think much of it before. It's amazing how this word can shift the fixed mindset to the opposite direction. It'll be another tool to add into my toolbox!
