In a world that often demands instant success, where we feel the pressure to have it all figured out in our careers, relationships, motherhood, and personal growth it’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind. But what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of seeing setbacks as failures, we embraced them as steps along our journey? That’s where the Power of Yet comes in.
What Is the Power of Yet?
The concept of Not Yet comes from psychologist Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking work on the growth mindset. I recently heard her speaking about the Power of Yet in her famous TED Talk, she shared a story about a Chicago high school that replaced failing grades with the phrase “Not Yet.” Instead of feeling like they had hit a dead end, students felt motivated to keep going, knowing that success was still within reach.
It got me into thinking this simple yet powerful shift in mindset could also be a game-changer for women in their personal and professional lives. Whether it’s pursuing a dream job, healing from a past relationship, or finding balance as a mother, Not Yet reminds us that growth is a process not a race.
How ‘Not Yet’ Is a Growth Mindset for Women
1. It Reframes Failure/Pauses as Growth
As women, we are often taught to fear failure to avoid risks, to be perfect, and to have everything under control. But Not Yet allows us to see challenges as opportunities to grow rather than reasons to quit. Instead of saying, “I failed at this,” we say, “I haven’t mastered it yet.” or “I am working on it”
Affirmation – Next time you feel like giving up, remind yourself: I am learning. I am growing. I am on my way.
2. It Helps in Practising Self-Compassion
Motherhood is filled with Not Yet moments. Maybe you’re still figuring out how to balance work and parenting, or how to carve out time for yourself without guilt. Instead of feeling like you’re not doing enough, remind yourself that you’re a work in progress just like your children.
Affirmation – I am not failing, I am learning and evolving.
3. It Supports Career & Entrepreneurial Growth
Dreaming of launching a business? Trying to land that leadership role? Feeling stuck in your career? Not Yet encourages us to keep pushing forward. The doors we knock on today may not open immediately, but that doesn’t mean they never will.
Affirmation – Every setback is a setup for a comeback. I will keep on keeping on!
Embracing ‘Not Yet’ in Everyday Life
You are not behind. You are not failing. You are exactly where you need to be learning, growing, and becoming. The next time you feel stuck, remind yourself: Not Yet is not a No. It’s a Not Now. Your time is coming. Keep going. You haven’t figured it out yet, but you will.
Ready to explore more self-growth? Check out these related posts on Sanity Daily:
What’s your ‘Not Yet’ moment?
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