A few days ago Stephen Curry set the NBA record for career triples made: 2974. Three years ago in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, he made it clear what his mindset was: “I feel like I can get better at putting the ball in the basket.” “I can get better.”
A few words that made it clear what this champion Curry’s mindset is that gives him an edge. According to Curry, the most efficient shooter in the history of the NBA the word “peak” does not exist, as he is always focused on improvement.
Curry displays a continually growth-oriented mindset, as described by Carol Dweck, the “Growth Mindset.” People who think this way believe their potential is unlimited. As opposed to people with a “fixed mindset” who conversely see no room for improvement. Having a growth mindset means you’re open to learning new skills and cultivating better habits – no matter how good you are today.
Dweck says many people with a growth mindset didn’t start out that way. In fact, they were pretty ordinary. Curry’s NBA draft report confirms Dweck’s point. In a video for CoachUp, Curry himself read parts of the 2009 draft report, “Curry’s athleticism is substandard. He’s not a great finisher around the basket. He needs to improve greatly as a ball handler. He will limit success at the next level.”
People with growth mindset are obsessed with learning because they believe they can become better, which in Curry’s case, consisted of improving their shooting efficiency. They celebrate victories, but see successes as milestones and not the end game.
Curry calls himself his “fiercest opponent” while perceiving opposing teams smaller than the expectations he has of them.Stephen Curry stated “Your state of mind is the main driving force behind your successes and failures. Stay hungry, stay driven.”
So reflect on your performance: Are you improving or staying in your place? Are you growing or making the same mistakes over and over again?
