It was the Little Blue Engine’s attitude that got her up over the mountain to deliver all the dolls and toys to the good boys and girls on the other side of the mountain ( haha, can you tell we read Watty Piper’s The Little Engine that Could with our daughter a lot?!)

In psychological terms, you could say that it was the Little Blue Engine’s “growth mindset” and “positive self talk” that allowed her to accomplish this great task that she had never done before.

I think the story really gets at an invaluable gem– the importance of telling yourself positive, encouraging words. 

Even if you don’t believe them (yet), still say them. Pray that you will believe them. And who knows, maybe one day we (individually and collectively) will be doing things that we never thought were even imaginable today. Or at least doing things that fear or worry got in the way of us trying before. 

You are worthy. You are capable. You are lovely. Just for being, YOU. 🙂 Warmly, Robyn

For more:

• Growth Mindset (vs. Fixed Mindset): the idea that our capabilities and intelligence are not fixed– that they actually can grow and develop… by making mistakes, learning, and practicing! Carol Dweck, Ph.D., coined this term. Check out her book, Mindset: the New Psychology of Success. Go you go! And if you are a parent, this is invaluable to model to your kids.
• The reason why we even have a chance at developing a growth mindset… is because of neuroplasticity! (this idea that our brains can rewire and change). I’ve written a few different posts on neuroplasticity, including How to Improve Your Brain Health, and Q-TIP-ing. Enjoy, be encouraged, and be motivated to try!