Is your attitude about your ability affecting your success?

What an interesting question posed by Chip Heath and Dan Heath (yes, they are brothers) in their new book "Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" http://www.amazon.com/Made-Stick-Ideas-Survive-Others/dp/1400064287/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/104-7796923-0365527?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1184612192&sr=1-1

"There is a long-standing debate about whether leaders are born or made. But, let's not revisit nature vs. nurture. Could it be that your point of view on this issue is what actually makes you a better or worse leader? And if so, is nature or nurture the more career-enhancing POV?"

"People with a fixed mind-set believe that intelligence is static. Your behavior provides a sample of your true underlying intelligence, like a taster spoon from a tub of ice cream. And, because people will judge your intelligence by the samples you provide, you'll definitely scoop out an Oreo chunk whenever you have the chance. Examples: Bob Nardelli (Home Depot), Manny Ramirez (Boston Red Sox)

"The other group are people with a growth mind-set. These people believe intelligence can be developed, like muscles. If you're in this camp, you'll test yourself more, despite the risk. You're more inclined to accept criticism which ultimately makes you better. You perceive hard work as the path to mastery, not as a sign of insufficient genius. Examples: Anne Mulcahy (Xerox), Tiger Woods (Professional Golfer), David Neeleman (JetBlue Founder)

"Wouldn't it be fascinating to see whether a few hours of training in a powerful idea might move the needle on the corporate income statement?"

Hmmmm...