When we look at other people’s qualities as traits, it’s easy to get stuck into a fixed mindset. We may feel, “He is naturally like that, I’m not”. But when we look upon it as internalized skills, then we are coming from a growth mindset. It is now something that we can also cultivate, if we want it.

Look upon everything as a skill to be cultivated, not as a trait that you either have or not. Public speaking, cooking, math, being good with computers, writing, having an eye for design, mental focus, resilience, memory, discipline, confidence, charisma—these are all skills that are learned with deliberate practice. Once a skill is fully internalized, then it becomes effortless. We get to the point of “unconscious competence”.

What is one skill or quality that would make your life better?

Exercise

What would your life look like, three months from now, it you dedicate ten minutes every day to learning it?

Going Deeper

That will require a morning routine. Download the free workbook available on MindfulSelfDiscipline.com/workbook to get tips for establishing an effective Morning Routine.