MASTER Risk Model - Learning Resources - Mindset

Cognitive Adaptability

Read an academic article that opposes your stance—summarize its strongest point in one sentence.

Pause and ask: “What’s another way to see this?” when reacting strongly to research challenges.

Choose one study habit to change today—switch the order, method, or location you normally use.

Read an article outside your discipline—note one idea you could apply to your own research.

Challenge your default choice in a low-stakes task—try the opposite to stretch flexibility.

Use the phrase “That’s interesting—tell me more” when peers challenge your perspective.

Emotional Adaptability

When academic stress rises, pause and name the feeling—labeling it reduces its control over you.

Use a grounding question during stress: “What emotion am I feeling, and is it helping right now?”

Replace a reactive email with a calmer draft—pause to edit before pressing send to professors.

Repeat the phrase “I choose how I respond” before entering a tense academic discussion.

Smile or breathe deeply before responding to tough feedback—reset your emotional tone first.

Use a quick body scan during stress—what emotion is stored in shoulders, neck, or chest?

Behavioral Adaptability

In your next seminar, change your usual style—speak more if quiet, or listen more if you dominate.

Adjust your study routine by shifting one habit—notice what happens when you break the pattern.

Observe one seminar fully before speaking—adapt to group rhythm before joining the discussion.

Say yes to an activity you’d normally decline—respond differently and track what happens.

Try a new feedback style today—if soft, be direct; if blunt, use inquiry. Notice the effect.

Study in a new location for half a day—track how it shifts your focus and productivity.

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