This Mental Health Month, The Village is inviting you to “Retrain Your Brain.” Our thoughts shape how we feel, act, and relate to others, but sometimes, the way we think holds us back. These four common unhelpful mindsets can lead to stress, low self-esteem, and disconnection. The good news? Mindsets can be unlearned, and new, healthier patterns can take their place.
Here’s a closer look at each mindset and how to start shifting them:
Fixed Mindset
A fixed mindset is the belief that our intelligence, abilities, or personality traits are set in stone. When we think this way, we’re more likely to avoid challenges, give up easily, or fear failure because we believe it reflects who we are.
“Focus on a growth mindset,” says Eben Danielson, Clinical Supervisor in Moorhead. “A growth mindset happens when we believe change can happen, focus on the possibilities, and learn to embrace the challenges.”
Instead of saying, “I’m just not good at this,” try adding, “yet.” With effort and the right support, we can develop new skills and reframe setbacks as opportunities to learn.
Victim Mindset
When we’re stuck in a victim mindset, we tend to feel powerless. Life seems to be something that happens to us, not something we can influence. This mindset often leads to blame, resentment, and a sense of helplessness.
“We all have the power to change the victim mindset,” shares Joan Shulind, a Clinician in Grand Forks. “One tip to help is to believe we can change our circumstances. We can learn to take responsibility for ourselves and our choices.”
By shifting from “Why is this happening to me?” to “What can I do next?” we regain a sense of agency and hope.
Scarcity Mindset
The scarcity mindset is rooted in fear and lack. It’s the belief that there’s never enough time, money, energy, love, and success. This mindset can lead to anxiety, competition, and difficulty celebrating others’ wins.
“It’s not about becoming enough; it’s about knowing you are enough already!” says Kristin Goracke, Regional Program Supervisor in Alexandria. “Develop a gratitude practice. What are you grateful for? And where are you plentiful?”
Gratitude helps shift our focus from what’s missing to what’s present. It grounds us in abundance, not fear.
All-or-Nothing Mindset
This mindset sees life in extremes, success or failure, good or bad, in control or totally off track. It can lead to perfectionism and burnout, or cause us to abandon goals the moment we make a mistake.
“Identify those thoughts and when they are happening,” says Katie Roach, EAP Clinical Supervisor in Fargo. “A lot of times, these thoughts happen when we’re stressed. Recognizing this can help us see when we need to practice self-care.”
Progress isn’t linear, and one slip doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Learning to find the middle ground is key to long-term growth and emotional balance.
Ready to Retrain Your Brain?
Everyone struggles with unhelpful thoughts from time to time. But you don’t have to stay stuck. A licensed clinician at The Village can help you build awareness, practice new ways of thinking, and create meaningful change.
You are capable of growth, and we’re here to walk with you.