Bethesda Growth Mindset Salon

4.8•195 ratings

About us

Tired of small talk and craving conversations that actually matter?

The Bethesda Growth Mindset Salon is a community for curious minds who want to grow, learn, and connect through meaningful experiences. Each gathering centers on an idea that expands how we think or live, sometimes sparked by a short TED Talk, other times by a shared reflection or group activity.

Our mission is to create a space where curiosity drives connection and every conversation helps us practice the growth mindset: embracing learning, challenge, and change.

If you’re looking for thoughtful people and thought-provoking dialogue, join us. Let’s explore personal growth, one conversation at a time.

Our Ground Rules

Step up and step back. If you've been talking a lot, step back and listen; if you've been quiet, step up and share your perspective or ask questions.
Listen to understand, not to respond.
Respect diverse viewpoints.

All events are free, inclusive, and non-promotional, focused solely on learning and growth.

Upcoming events

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Ted Talk Discussion: Why Having Fun Is the Secret to a Healthier Life
Sun, Mar 29 · 3:30 PM EDT
Panera Bread, 7201 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD, US
To receive future event updates, register on Luma:
https://luma.com/tv3fhasq

Have you had your daily dose of fun? It's not just enjoyable, it's also essential for your health and happiness, says science journalist Catherine Price. She proposes a new definition of fun -- what she calls "true fun" -- and shares easy, evidence-backed ways to weave playfulness, flow and connection into your everyday life.

Please watch this YouTube video before joining the discussion:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMBJrvEwv8s

If more than 10 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. (max 10 people per group)
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1. True fun is a visceral feeling of being illuminated from within rather than just a leisure activity. How can we better distinguish between activities that merely pass the time and those that truly make us feel radiant?
2. Playfulness involves a lighthearted attitude of doing things for their own sake without worrying about the outcome. How might our community change if we collectively lowered our guards and let go of the need for perfection?
3. Most peak fun memories involve a shared experience that helps us feel united with others. In a polarized world, how can the pursuit of fun serve as a bridge to connect us as human beings?
4. Fun requires a state of flow where we are so engaged that we lose track of time. What environments can we create together that naturally encourage us to be fully present and focused on the moment?
5. Prioritizing fun acts as a legitimate health intervention by reducing stress and promoting social bonding. How would we shift our schedules if we viewed joyful moments as essential to our physical and mental well-being?
6. Constant digital distractions interrupt our flow and prevent us from forming real-world connections. What boundaries can we set with our devices to ensure we remain available for spontaneous moments of joy?
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To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events:
1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question)
2. Listen to understand, not to respond.
3. Be open-minded and value differences.
20 attendees