Most people have heard the common phrase “mind over matter”. Usually, it is used to encourage someone to work through a tough situation, whether that be finishing a long homework assignment, running an extra lap during soccer practice, or working through a difficult math problem. But what does it actually mean, and how can we apply it in a way that helps kids stay motivated? We can figure this out through the connection between mindset and motivation.
Are you looking for motivation for your child? Call or visit an A Grade Ahead academy near you to get a free curriculum sample, take a free assessment, or sign up for a free trial class today!
Why Motivation Matters
Motivation is what drives us to set goals and keep on working toward them, including times when life and other things get challenging. For students, motivation can be the difference between giving up on a math problem and continuing work until the idea clicks. It is also what encourages them to study a little longer, ask for help when help is needed, and celebrate progress along the way.
Without having any motivation, even some of the most talented students can struggle to meet their potential. But with the right mindset, motivation becomes far easier to find and maintain.
Did you know that A Grade Ahead offers enrichment classes for math students in prekindergarten to High School?
The Power of a Growth Mindset
This is where psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on a growth mindset can be applied. According to Dweck, students who believe their abilities can grow with effort and practice are more likely to embrace challenges and keep going when they are faced with setbacks. Conversely, students with a fixed mindset (meaning that their abilities are “set in stone”) are more likely to give up when faced with the same challenge.
Think of it like this: A student with a fixed mindset may say things like, “I’m just not good at math”. But, a student with a growth mindset would say, “This problem is hard right now, but if I practice, I can get better.” That simple shift in thinking can completely change how motivated that student may feel.
If you want to learn more about her work, here is a short video where she explains the concept of developing a growth mindset!
A Grade Ahead is all about encouraging students to believe they can, like in our English classes for students in prekindergarten to High School!
Applying the Idea of “Mind Over Matter” in Daily Life
So now that we know about a growth mindset, how do we take this saying and make it practical for students? Here are a few ideas:
- Set small, achievable goals. Big tasks feel far less overwhelming when broken into smaller steps. Each small success can boost motivation, making the overall task a more positive experience.
- Celebrate effort, not just outcomes. Praise your student for the hard work they put in, not just the grade they receive. This reinforces the value of persistence.
- Model a growth mindset. Share your own challenges with your students and explain how you overcame them. Kids learn a lot through example!
- Reframe mistakes. Instead of viewing mistakes as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. This makes students more likely to engage in activities that may seem more difficult, and will ultimately help them have a more positive mindset.
At A Grade Ahead, we believe that learning should be fun! This helps us model a positive mindset to students.
Final Thoughts
“Mind over matter” isn’t just a fun phrase, it can be a whole mindset shift. By helping students build motivation and adopt a growth mindset, we give them tools to tackle challenges with confidence. With practice, kids can learn to see obstacles not as roadblocks, but as stepping stones toward success!
What do you think? How do you build motivation and support a growth mindset with your child? Let us know in the comments!
Author: Meghan Hubbard, Teacher at A Grade Ahead
