Dr Kgomotso Jongman delivers lecture on mindset change & Resilience

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - 08:00

As the tripartite convened at Ave Maria Pastoral Centre in Gaborone for Staff development following a lengthy hiatus, University of Botswana Lecturer and motivational speaker, Dr. Kgomotso Jongman delivered a powerful and transformational session on Mindset change.
Unpacking the Mindset shift Dr Jongman explained that Mindset develops out of your personal background mostly. How you were raised may help you to have confidence, self-esteem and a positive self-concept.
He spoke about the concept of change and resilience. According to Jongman, what you tell yourself every day is what you become. The development of mindset in people is crucial as it shapes their belief systems, attitudes, and overall approach to life.
 
Mindset refers to the way individuals perceive and interpret the world around them, including their abilities, talents, intelligence, and potential for growth.  He categorized these into two main types: fixed mindset and growth mindset. It is of critical importance for IDM to align to a growth mindset as we operate in a highly volatile environment and provide tertiary education where we say we grow great minds.
 
Changing one's mindset is a gradual process that involves self-reflection and intentional effort. Listed are some practical steps to cultivate a growth mindset:
1. Embrace Challenges: Rather than avoiding challenges, actively seek them out. Approach difficulties as opportunities to learn and improve.
2. Learn from Criticism: View feedback, even criticism, as valuable insights for personal growth. Use constructive criticism as a tool for improvement.
3. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results: Shift the focus from outcomes to the effort invested. Recognize and celebrate the hard work put into achieving goals, regardless of the immediate results.
4.  Cultivate a Love for Learning: Develop a curiosity that drives a continuous desire to learn. Engage in activities that challenge your intellect and expand your skill set.
By shifting from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, individuals can unlock their full potential, leading to increased resilience, motivation, and a lifelong love for learning. Embracing challenges, learning from experiences, and fostering a positive outlook are key ingredients in the recipe for personal and professional success. Dr Jongman reminded us that the journey towards a positive mindset is a continuous process of self-discovery and growth.