Overcoming Limitations and Cultivating a Growth Mindset (video)

In a recent episode hosted by John Golden engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kareen Walsh, a visionary business strategist, author, podcaster, investor, and entrepreneurial guide. The episode delves into the theme of overcoming limitations, particularly those imposed by external influences, and the importance of understanding and aligning with one’s core values to foster personal and professional growth. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Kareen to help you navigate your journey towards a growth mindset and self-fulfillment.

Introduction to Kareen’s Journey

Kareen Walsh’s journey is a testament to the power of recognizing and overcoming limitations. At the age of 23, she faced a significant challenge when she hit a glass ceiling in her first job. Her manager had no growth plan for her, which made Kareen realize that growth was a core value for her. This realization prompted her to reflect on the limitations that others had placed on her and to actively seek out environments that aligned with her desire for growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-Reflection: Recognize when external limitations are hindering your growth.
• Core Values: Identify and align with your core values to guide your decisions and actions.

The Evolve Mindset

Kareen introduces the concept of the “Evolve Mindset,” which she describes as being 90% mindset and 10% strategy, planning, and execution. She believes that while everyone has the capability to strategize and execute, it is the mindset that ultimately determines success. If individuals do not address their mindset, they risk stagnation and may find themselves running in circles.

Actionable Steps:

• Mindset Over Strategy: Focus on cultivating a positive and growth-oriented mindset.
• Continuous Learning: Engage in activities that challenge and expand your thinking.

Identifying Core Values

To help listeners discover their core values, Kareen offers a practical exercise available through her app, the “Hey Kareen” app. This resource includes a workbook that guides users through identifying their personal value system. Kareen shares her own core values—integrity, creativity, and love—and explains how these values guide her actions and decisions in both her personal and professional life.

Practical Exercise:

• Core Values Workbook: Use tools like the “Hey Kareen” app to identify your core values.
• Daily Reflection: Reflect on how your actions align with your core values.

Self-Responsibility

John and Kareen discuss the critical role of self-responsibility in personal growth. Kareen stresses that individuals must take ownership of their journey and not wait for external validation or support. She reflects on her own experiences, noting that she learned early on that no one looks out for her like she does. This realization has shaped her entrepreneurial mindset, where she actively seeks opportunities and takes charge of her destiny.

Tips for Self-Responsibility:

• Ownership: Take full responsibility for your growth and success.
• Proactive Communication: Clearly articulate your desires and needs to yourself and others.

The Impact of Relationships

The conversation shifts to the importance of examining the relationships in one’s life. Kareen points out that as individuals grow, they may find that some relationships become anchors that hold them back. She encourages listeners to assess the purpose of these relationships and to consider whether they align with their current path.

Relationship Assessment:

• Evaluate Relationships: Regularly assess the impact of your relationships on your growth.
• Make Adjustments: Be willing to let go of relationships that no longer serve your growth.

Fear of Success

The discussion also touches on the fear of success, which Kareen believes can be even more paralyzing than the fear of failure. She shares her own aspirations of speaking on large stages and acknowledges the fears that have held her back. By treating fear as a person to be acknowledged but not controlled, she is learning to face her fears and take action toward her goals.

Overcoming Fear:

• Acknowledge Fear: Recognize and address your fears without letting them control you.
• Take Action: Use fear as a motivator to pursue your aspirations.

The Need for Reflection

As the conversation progresses, John and Kareen highlight the importance of reflection in today’s fast-paced, distracted world. They discuss how many people mistake busyness for productivity and fail to carve out time for self-assessment. Kareen shares her daily rituals that create space for reflection, allowing her to stay aligned with her values and goals.

Reflection Practices:

• Daily Rituals: Incorporate daily practices that allow for reflection and self-assessment.
• Mindfulness: Take at least five minutes each day to pause, breathe, and reflect on your desires and fears.

Conclusion

In closing, John and Kareen reiterate the significance of understanding one’s core values, taking self-responsibility, and cultivating a growth mindset. They encourage listeners to embrace their journey, confront their fears, and create the space needed for reflection and growth. By doing so, individuals can overcome limitations and align their actions with their true aspirations, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and successful life.

Final Recommendations:

• Explore Resources: Utilize tools like the “Hey Kareen” app to support your journey of self-discovery and growth.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly revisit and refine your core values, mindset, and strategies.

By following these insights and actionable steps, you can navigate your path towards overcoming limitations and cultivating a growth mindset, leading to both personal and professional fulfillment.