Guy Kawasaki's Remarkable People

Greg Walton: The Extraordinary Power of Ordinary Psychological Shifts

32 snips
May 28, 2025
Greg Walton, a Stanford psychology professor and author of 'Ordinary Magic,' unpacks how tiny psychological shifts can lead to significant changes in our lives. He reveals effective ‘wise interventions’ that tackle barriers like feeling out of place and fixed mindsets. Walton shares stories showing how changing self-identities, like switching from 'I write' to 'I am a writer,' fosters empowerment. His insights offer practical strategies for improving educational outcomes, enriching relationships, and building understanding in communities.
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INSIGHT

Context Shapes Mindsets

  • Psychological experiences are deeply influenced by the context and environment around us.
  • Simply telling someone to adopt a 'growth mindset' ignores the systemic influences shaping their thinking and feelings.
ADVICE

Create Reflective Spaces

  • Create structured psychological spaces for people to reflect on important challenges.
  • Such spaces enable thinking about growth, belonging, and strategies to improve motivation and achievement.
ANECDOTE

Clear Talk Sparks Positive Spiral

  • A young woman wrestling with loss and isolation was able to 'spiral up' through clear, non-judgmental conversations.
  • Being frank about struggles allowed her and Greg Walton to mutually clarify and find a way forward.
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