Power of Possible 1
(Monday)
Context:
Employers want and seek out employees who:
● Find a way to get things done.
● Are out-of-the-box thinkers.
● Are doers, not just talkers.
● Aren’t afraid to take on new or challenging tasks.
● Are innovative problem-solvers
What it is: The power of possible is a mindset that allows you to be open to the possibility that anything can be learned or accomplished. The power of possible mentality allows for the possibility that with time and effort you can find a solution, solve a problem, or reach a goal.
Why it’s important: A growth mindset will contribute to your success in school, work, and life. As we’ll see, developing the power of possible mindset will aid in developing a growth mindset.
In the future, you will be hired to solve problems. You will be expected to do your best to accomplish any task given to you.
It is imperative that you have a positive view of yourself, and the self-confidence and self-esteem to be willing to give any task your best shot. It is imperative that you believe anything is possible.
Primer Questions
Read the quote by Henry Ford. What do you think he means?
Have you heard of a ‘fixed’ and ‘growth’ mindset?
People with a growth mindset believe it is possible for them to learn and develop new skills. Do you have this mindset?
Write down your answers and observations in your journal.
“
Whether you think you can, or you think you can't – you're right.
”
— Henry Ford
Is it even possible?
Before you can even start to solve a problem, you need to believe a solution is possible. If you don’t believe a solution is possible, you might not even try.
When it comes to what is possible for you to accomplish or learn, the same holds true.
Watch the video then answer the questions below, or discuss them with others.
Questions for reflection
Is it easy for you to mentally and emotionally allow for the possibility that there is a way to reach a goal, overcome an obstacle, or solve a problem?
Do you avoid negative thought patterns or do you focus on the negative?
Do you focus on possible solutions and visualize the outcome you want?
Write down your answers and observations in your journal, or discuss them with others.
Power of Possible in the workplace.
UConn Health is the branch of the University of Connecticut.
Their motto is “The Power of Possible”. Can you see why a medical center would embrace this type of thinking?
This is from their website:
“What do we mean when we talk about the power of possible? At UConn Health, it is harnessing the unique nature of an academic medical center for the advancement of health and medicine. It’s scientists and researchers seeking to make the impossible possible for our patients. It’s teaching the next generation of healthcare providers to imagine beyond what is, to what can be. It’s our work at the bed side, every day; committed, passionate people caring for those trusting us in a moment of need.”
Can you think of other jobs or industries that required people to do or create something that seemed impossible?
REMEMBER: At work, you will be asked to meet deadlines, come up with ideas and solutions, and overcome obstacles. With the power of possible, you can learn, adapt and solve problems.
When it comes to your abilities, do you believe that it’s possible for you to learn whatever you put your mind to?
What would you think of an ambulance driver who gave up trying to get an accident victim to the hospital because there was a construction roadblock? What could he do? What's possible?
What would you think of an auto mechanic if he said he couldn’t fix your car because he didn’t have a part in stock? What could he do? What would you suggest he do?
What would you think of an airline pilot if he decided to give up landing safety because he lost all hydraulics to his breaks? What about if he lost one of his engines? Is it still possible for him to land safely? Would you still want him to try?
Someone close to you contracts a rare disease. Doctors have not been successful in treating the disease. Most patients don't survive. They tell you that there is a treatment that might possibly save the person you are close to. Is it worth trying? If so, why?
There are many illnesses that do not have a cure or even a treatment. Why do you think researchers delicate their lives trying to find a cure or treatment for such illnesses? Are they wasting their time? Why or why not?
Metacognitive Goals
For this week, try to notice if you are the type of person who is easily discouraged when you run into obstacles or difficulties.
For example, do you give up easily or keep trying when learning something new is difficult? Or if someone asks you to do something that you haven’t done before? Do you accept the challenge or do you readily decline?
When you do face difficulties or obstacles, what do you focus on? Does your mind keep going over the reasons why something can’t be done? Or does your mind usually start working on possible solutions?
Thought of the day.
"It always seems impossible until it’s done."
- Nelson Mandela.