TED Talk Tuesday: "The Power of Believing That You Can Improve"

Hey Leaders!

Here’s something to reflect on this week: How often do we talk ourselves out of growth simply because we believe we’re “not good at something”?

In this powerful TED Talk, psychologist Carol Dweck reminds us that the difference between stuck and growing often comes down to two small words: “Not Yet.”

Watch the Talk here: https://www.ted.com/talks/carol_dweck_the_power_of_believing_that_you_can_improve

Big Takeaways:

“Not Yet” expands possibility. Instead of labeling something as failure, Dweck shows how “not yet” keeps the door open for future growth.
Growth Mindset changes outcomes. When we believe we can develop through effort and feedback, we become more resilient, more focused, and more confident.
Fixed Mindset limits potential. When we think our abilities are set in stone, we avoid challenges and protect our image instead of improving.
Your brain grows with effort. Stretching, trying, failing, and trying again literally forms new neural connections.
Leaders model the mindset. People rise or retreat based on how we respond to mistakes, effort, and progress.

Dweck’s message is clear: our mindset shapes the culture we lead. A “not yet” environment encourages courage, experimentation, and continuous improvement. When we shift our language, we shift our leadership — and the potential of the people around us.

When we embrace growth, we inspire growth. And when people grow, teams flourish, organizations transform, and communities thrive. This is the foundation of our Axis Leadership motto: Better People, Better World.

Where can you apply “not yet” in your leadership this week? And how might that small shift create space for someone on your team to rise?

- Dr. Joe

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