Growth Mindset and Resilience in High-Pressure Work

Author: Lynda Chebbihi

High-performance roles often place strict expectations on accuracy. This is common in oil, gas, energy and safety-critical environments. Precision supports safety and efficiency, yet perfection remains unrealistic. Human error forms part of any learning process.

Past mistakes do not set limits on future achievements. They do not define your identity or your capacity to improve. Dr Carol S Dweck's research emphasises adopting a growth mindset: viewing setbacks as opportunities to learn rather than proof of inadequacy, and valuing strategies, perseverance, and seeking suport when things get tough.

Neuroscience reveals the formation of new nerual pathways, strengthening the brain's problem-solving skills, attention and emotional steadiness during stressful times. This is what resilience looks like. It involves acknowledging mistakes while staying focused on taking the next step forward.

Useful Actions:

• Reflect on one recent challenge and identify one lesson learned
• Divide complex tasks into smaller manageable steps (SMART method)
• Track progress instead of outcomes
• Request feedback from trusted colleagues
• Add structure to high-pressure weeks to stay clear-headed

Growth begins with one intention. Choose one small action today that supports your development. This shift enhances your self-leadership and improve how you lead others.

Trust your process.

Reference

Dweck C.S. (2017). Mindset: Changing the way you think to fulfil your potential. Robinson.