OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

They also believe that just because there’s a challenge in the relationship, it doesn’t mean that either person is actually flawed as a human being. The problem with that way of thinking, of course, is that if you believe your partner’s character is flawed in some way, then there’s nothing you can really do about it. It’s fixed (just like the mindset of someone who thinks this way). When either person in a relationship takes on this point of view, it’s just a matter of time before the union begins to unravel.

Those with a growth mindset don’t shy away from problems (in fact, they’re more likely to address them) but they don’t blame, either. They understand that there may be a problem with the situation, but not necessarily with the person. They know that nobody’s perfect, even the ideal partner—that there is no relationship without its share of challenges. They acknowledge each person’s limitations, then start work on overcoming them. What a recipe for success.