Values clarification — identifying what matters most to you at the deepest level — is a cornerstone of ACT therapy for growth mindset and provides direction when growth mindset removes other navigational tools.
Why Values Matter for Growth Mindset
Growth Mindset often disconnects us from our values through avoidance, withdrawal, and reduced capacity. Reconnecting with values provides:
- Direction when growth mindset has eliminated other motivation
- Meaning that persists even through difficult growth mindset periods
- A basis for action independent of how growth mindset makes you feel
Clarifying Your Values with Growth Mindset
Ask yourself: 'If my growth mindset were less present, what would I be doing more of? What kind of person would I be?'
Values are not goals (achievable and done) but ongoing directions: being a present parent, creating beauty, contributing to others.
Values-Based Action in Growth Mindset
ACT therapy teaches: act according to values even when growth mindset is present. Small values-aligned actions, despite growth mindset, are more sustainable than waiting for growth mindset to lift first.