The Psychology of Growth | Beyza Gursun Ozden | TEDxThe University of Law Moorgate

Quick Overview

Growth is a fundamental human need driven by our brains' wiring for neuroplasticity, and achieving it requires a three-step intentional formula focusing on modifying limiting beliefs, actively seeking specific feedback, and taking continuous, small actions based on those insights.

Key Points: The human desire to grow manifests as willingly choosing challenges, exemplified by people pursuing master's degrees while working or learning new languages in retirement. The brain is naturally wired to grow through neuroplasticity, where repeated practice strengthens neural pathways, confirming that everyone can improve. The first step in the growth formula involves noticing limiting beliefs, such as those starting with 'I am not good at,' and transforming them by adding 'yet' to tap into a growth mindset. Intentional feedback seeking is crucial to overcome blind spots, as research shows those who seek feedback perform better by gaining clarity on external perceptions. Effective feedback seeking avoids vague requests like 'I love to hear your feedback' and instead uses specific, forward-looking questions like, 'What can I do to improve my writing?' Action requires embracing the tension and fear that accompany change, viewing this tension as a signal of growth, and focusing on small, daily differences: 'What can I do differently today?' Growth is a continuous cycle: make a change, check how it went, appreciate progress, and start the cycle over, remembering that 'Growth doesn't just happen to you. It happens because of you.'

Context: Psychologist Beyza Gursun Ozden delivers a TEDx talk explaining the psychological underpinnings of personal and organizational growth, asserting that growth is a fundamental need reflected in people choosing difficult pursuits like advanced degrees or mastering complex skills. She frames growth not as chance but as a process that must be designed, relying on the brain's inherent capacity for adaptation and change, known as neuroplasticity.