Power of Possible 1
(Monday)
Context:
Employers want and seek out employees who:
● Find ways to get things done.
● Think outside the box.
● Are doers, not just talkers.
● Are not afraid to take on new or challenging tasks.
● Are innovative problem-solvers
What it is:
The "Power of Possible" is a mindset that encourages openness to the idea that anything can be learned or accomplished. This mentality fosters the belief that, with time and effort, you can find solutions, solve problems, and achieve your goals.
Why it’s important:
A growth mindset is essential for success in school, work, and life. As we will explore, cultivating the "Power of Possible" mindset plays a key role in developing a growth mindset.
In the future, you will be hired to solve problems and expected to give your best effort in accomplishing any task assigned to you.
It is crucial to maintain a positive self-view, along with the self-confidence and self-esteem to tackle any task with determination. Above all, you must believe that anything is possible.
Primer Questions
Read the quote by Henry Ford. What do you think he means?
Have you heard of a "fixed" mindset and a "growth" mindset?
People with a growth mindset believe it is possible 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 begin solving a problem, you need to believe that a solution is possible. If you don't believe a solution is possible, you might not even attempt to find one.
The same principle applies when it comes to what you can accomplish or learn.
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 embrace 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 tend to 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.
The Power of Possible in the Workplace
UConn Health is a 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 where people have to do or create something that once seemed impossible?
REMEMBER: At work, you will be asked to meet deadlines, generate 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 it's possible for you to learn anything you set your mind to?
What would you think of an ambulance driver who gave up trying to get an accident victim to the hospital because of 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, pay attention to whether you tend to get easily discouraged when you encounter obstacles or difficulties.
For example, when learning something new becomes challenging, do you give up easily, or do you keep trying? Or if someone asks you to do something you've never done before, do you accept the challenge or readily decline?
When you face difficulties or obstacles, what do you focus on? Does your mind dwell on the reasons something can’t be done, or does it shift to finding possible solutions?
Thought of the day.
"It always seems impossible until it’s done."
- Nelson Mandela.