For instance, if someone does a great job on a project, say, “Wow, you must have worked really hard on this.” Instead of, “You’re brilliant!”
People can control effort, while traits like intelligence or talent often feel fixed. By highlighting hard work, you empower people to see their growth and contribution, regardless of outcomes.
Trait-based praise can be risky because if you tell people they’re smart when they do something right, how will they feel when things don’t go as planned?
🤔 How do you approach giving meaningful praise in your workplace?
Reference: Dweck CS. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House; 2006.