As you know, this year I am trying to tackle two books a month at the minimum as I get back into the rhythm of reading and learning from other leaders. #LeadersAreReaders!

One of the “classics” that I started the year off is Mindset by Carol Dweck. This is one book that I have heard of being mentioned across several different industries and niches this past year. It is not that common for a book title to be recommended across such a wide swath of audiences.

There is a reason why this is a must read book according to many folks in many industries. Lots to learn from this book.

Here are some snippets from others that have read and reviewed the book so that you get a good sense of what Mindset is all about as you walk into the journey of reading this book. I’ll start off with a review by a guy named Bill. If Bill likes the book, it’s got to be good, right?

Reviews of Mindset by Carol Dweck

“One of the reasons I loved Mindset is because it’s solutions-oriented. In the book’s final chapter, Dweck describes the workshop she and her colleagues have developed to shift students from a fixed to a growth mindset.” https://www.gatesnotes.com/Books/Mindset-The-New-Psychology-of-Success

“In her research, Carol Dweck found that the only thing that separates people who succeed from those who don’t is whether or not they have a growth mindset. This book is about that mindset, and how you can learn it and use it. The book sounds a bit corny on the surface, but when you dive in, it’s entertaining, fun, practical, and definitely worth your time. You should read this book.” http://alifeofproductivity.com/mindset-book-review/

“The people that always seem to succeed are the people that are willing to really push themselves to the limit. Often, the person with the most natural talent doesn’t win the race – and for a long time, I didn’t understand why. This book (and the surprisingly similar Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell) explains it quite well.” http://www.thesimpledollar.com/review-mindset

“If you are struggling with frustrations in any aspect of your life, Mindset may be just the book for you. It can help you to see which mindset you possess and the implications it may be having on your life, as well as provide you with suggestions and strategies on how to make a change for the best.” http://www.davidsongifted.org/db/Articles_id_10639.aspx

“Dweck cites a number of examples to illustrate her points throughout the book – in fact, much of the book is a series of vignettes, making it very easy to read.” http://www.future-leaders.org.uk/insights-blog/review-mindset-carol-dweck/

“Carol Dweck’s research provides invaluable lessons for educators, helping us adapt a psychologically effective way of motivating students to put forth their best effort.” https://www.envisionexperience.com/blog/book-review-mindset-the-new-psychology-of-success-by-carol-dweck

“Carol Dweck’s book Mindset is a great read. It is well written and almost has “I can’t put it down” feel to it. This book though not written specifically for coaches is a must read for coaches. Nothing will grow your program faster than a growth mindset.” http://tonydemeo.com/book-reviews/mindset-by-carol-s-dweck/

“Mindset is a convincing and accessible book with a powerful central message for all in education: “we must teach our students to love learning and to learn and think for themselves.” I would class it as an essential read.” http://www.imaginative-inquiry.co.uk/2014/05/a-review-of-mindset-carol-dweck/

“Dweck provides a segment at the end of each chapter called Grow Your Mindset containing bullet point tips for adopting a growth mindset in the areas discussed in that chapter. She shows how a growth mindset translates to belief in effort, new definitions for success, and resilience in the face of setbacks. Those sound like things that we all need!” http://www.practicebalance.com/2015/08/book-review-mindset-by-carol-dweck.html

“Reading Mindset has reminded me that learning concepts easily does not necessarily mean one is a great student, and that by applying the feedback that I receive from peers and professors I can come to a better understanding.” http://www.mahabeer.com/index.php/home/21-book-review-of-mindset-by-carol-s-dweck

If you have read the book, I would love to hear what one single learning or concept stood out for you. Or if you thought it was all hogwash, I definitely want to know your response to Dweck’s book! Please consider sharing it with me in the comments below. I read every single one.