This is a guest post by Dana Watkins, Program Manager for the BIC and Founder of Snaply Sites.
When I was a math teacher, I used to hear students say things like, “I’m just not good at math.” It pained me to hear that because I knew their struggle wasn’t permanent—it was just part of the process. So I started introducing the idea of “yet.” Instead of saying, “I don’t get this,” I’d encourage them to say, “I don’t get this yet.” That one small shift changed everything. Over time, I realized this concept isn’t just for kids; it’s a game-changer for anyone trying to grow personally or professionally. Here’s how you can embrace the power of “yet” and build a growth mindset in your own life.
What Does “Yet” Mean in a Growth Mindset?
“Yet” is a simple word, but it carries so much weight. It’s the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. Instead of viewing skills or knowledge as fixed, “yet” reminds you that everything is a work in progress.
When I launched Snaply Sites, there were a lot of things I didn’t know about running a business. I’d catch myself thinking, “I’m not cut out for this.” But then I’d add “yet” to the end of that sentence: “I’m not cut out for this yet.” That single word turned my doubts into motivation. It shifted my mindset from “I can’t” to “I’m learning.”
Practical Strategies to Embrace the “Yet” Mindset
Reframe Negative Self-Talk
When you’re stuck in a fixed mindset, it’s easy to focus on what you can’t do. For me, that often sounded like, “I’m not great at sales” or “I don’t know enough about marketing.” But the minute I added “yet,” I gave myself permission to learn and grow. If you catch yourself spiraling, try this: Write down the negative thought and add “yet” to the end. It’s amazing how powerful that tiny word can be.
Set Growth-Oriented Goals
When we started Snaply Sites, our first goal wasn’t to sign 100 clients—it was to help one small business get an affordable website they loved. That focus on incremental progress made the process feel achievable. Break your big goals into smaller steps and celebrate the wins along the way. Growth isn’t about perfection; it’s about moving forward.
Learn from Failure
I’ll never forget the sting of losing our first client. I felt dejected, but instead of letting it derail me, I treated it like a learning experience. What could I have done differently? How can I avoid this in the future? Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey. Every time I stumble, I remind myself: I haven’t mastered this yet.
Surround Yourself with Growth-Minded People
When I started getting involved with the Boyd Innovation Center, I was blown away by the number of people who were learning, growing, and supporting each other. Being around those kinds of people inspired me to push myself. Whether it’s joining a local group, attending events, or just finding a mentor, surrounding yourself with growth-minded people can make all the difference.
Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Results
It’s easy to get caught up in the end goal, but I’ve learned that the process is where the magic happens. I used to put so much pressure on myself to hit certain milestones that I forgot to enjoy the journey. Now, I celebrate the little things—like figuring out a new software tool or seeing a client’s face light up when their website goes live. Focus on the effort, not just the outcome.
The Role of “Yet” in Everyday Life
The beauty of “yet” is that it applies to every area of life, not just work. When my husband and I were experimenting with different business ideas, there were plenty of moments when we thought, “This isn’t working.” But instead of giving up, we reminded ourselves: “This isn’t working yet.” That mindset kept us moving forward, and eventually, we found something that clicked.
Even now, I use “yet” to reframe challenges. Whether it’s parenting, learning a new skill, or navigating a tough conversation, “yet” reminds me that growth is always possible.
Why Maintaining a Growth Mindset Matters
A growth mindset isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about becoming the kind of person who embraces challenges, learns from setbacks, and keeps moving forward. For me, “yet” has been the key to unlocking that mindset. It’s a daily reminder that I don’t have to have it all figured out today, but I can get there with time and effort.
Stay Focused on the Yet
If you’re feeling stuck or discouraged, try adding “yet” to your vocabulary. It’s a small shift, but it has the power to change the way you see yourself and your potential. Remember: Growth takes time, and every step forward is progress. So whatever you’re working on—whether it’s launching a business, learning a new skill, or just figuring out your next move—give yourself grace, stay curious, and don’t forget the power of “yet.”
