You've probably heard of this debate before, it certainly makes its way into several discussions, usually about the "why" of something. I've definitely brought it up before in another post. When it comes to people and their abilities, especially when they're children, we ask is it because of nature or nurture?
When children enter school, their mathematical abilities or leanings toward certain subjects can be credited to natural talent. On the other hand, improvement could be related to the environment (supportive teachers). Carol Dweck has a theory on mindsets that is similar to this. Dweck states that there are two types of mindsets: growth and fixed. As can be inferred, growth means someone believes in their own ability to improve and change, while fixed means that someone believes they are limited and unable to surpass a certain level.
A fixed mindset can hinder someone from making progress or getting farther in life. They believe that they are born with certain talents and that there are limits to what they can do. While a growth mindset can help someone overcome challenges, they work hard because they think that it is possible to get better. Adam comes across this debate in Island Whispers. He speaks to Gigi, a healer, about what he can do and she tells him about gifts.
"Gigi patted his hand again thoughtfully. “You know, after all these years, there is something I have learned about my gift.” She paused, taking a deep breath. “It is not special. All merpeople have the potential to be great healers. All it takes is work and practice. There is a misconception that we must be born with the ability, and that what we are born with determines who we are and what we can do.
“But that’s not true. I could teach any merperson to heal as long as they have the desire to learn and the persistence to never give up. Our gifts do not determine what we do; that is for our own minds to decide. You have the power to decide when and where you want to use your gift. These younger generations are so set in the belief that it must come easily to them, that it must be natural or else it is not their calling. But it is the interest that really determines what we do. If we are interested, then we can do anything. Think on that, Adam.” She let go of his hand, giving him another warm smile, her eyes tracing his face again. “You have a good heart, boy. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.”
(Page 45)
Now that is quite a mouthful of a paragraph so I'm going to highlight on some key points.
First of all, the word "gift" often means something granted, given. It can be taken away, but it isn't something someone can get for themselves, not in this context. Gigi dismisses the idea of a gift as special. She is declared a gifted healer and the merfolk are awed by her abilities. They believe that you must be born with something to have it.
However, Gigi says that anyone can be a great healer. She has the growth mindset that anyone who works hard and practices will be able to do as well as her. If the desire for learning is there, then anything is possible.
She also states that what we are able to do doesn't determine what we do. People often choose the path of least resistance and if you are good at something, it can bolster your resolve to continue with it. Yet, you don't have to do that. You can choose to do what you're good at or learn something new.
Lastly, she remarks upon "these younger generations". I know, I know. I'm not that old, but I have an ear among my peers (currently the young folk of the world). Perhaps you've heard this too, but so many people believe that they're not meant to do something that is difficult. If something challenges you, then it's time to give it up. I'm guilty of that. I ran track and field for two years, but quit my last year because I didn't believe I was actually contributing to the team. There are a few other things that come to mind, but hopefully you see my point. When the going gets tough, we get going and don't look back. Obviously there are exceptions. People do stick it out in certain areas. We're not all lazy and likely to give up, but there is enough of a mindset that it doesn't come as a surprise.
My point? Know what you love. Know what makes you excited and energized. Follow it through. Keep trying and doing. If you falter, don't let yourself fall behind. You can do more than you know if you choose to keep with it.
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