“Growth mindset” is a buzzword in parenting and personal development today. A “fixed mindset” is when you feel stuck and don’t think that you can improve in a certain area. In contrast, a “growth mindset is a constant decision to see challenge as an opportunity for growth. It helps you achieve your goals as you embrace perseverance and hard work.”

The world’s version of growth mindset focuses on achieving earthly success, but God calls us and our children to a different vision of growth. God has made each of us for a great mission according to His purpose. We each have gifts designed to help us achieve that purpose, but most of all, we are called to a life of virtue.

Ginny Kochis of notsoformulaic.com has developed Made for Greatness: A Growth Mindset Journal for Courageous Catholic Youth to help Catholic children and teens ages nine and up to develop a virtuous life and live for God.

The four Cardinal virtues are prudence, temperance, justice, and self-control. The three Theological virtues are faith, hope, and charity. For each of these virtues, Kochis shares stories of holy people who have exhibited that trait as well as suggestions of how to incorporate that virtue in your life. There are also reflection questions with room provided in the pages to provide the answers.

The last section of the book is “Say This, Not That” which can help with negative self-talk. For example, instead of saying “I’m no good at this,” say “I’m still learning.” Instead of saying “I’m worthless,” say “I am beautifully, wonderfully made.”

This practical, encouraging journal is beautifully illustrated by Claire Peterson. Made for Greatness would be a great resource to use as part of a religion program. Parents and children could work on it together; while it is intended for youth, adults can certainly benefit from the stories and reflections as well.