The Rosenthal Experiment
In the 1960s, psychologist Robert Rosenthal conducted an experiment that revealed something powerful: expectations influence outcomes.
In a study with elementary school students, Rosenthal and Lenore Jacobson told teachers that certain students were expected to show exceptional intellectual growth based on a test. In reality, these students were chosen at random. But by the end of the study, those students actually performed better.
Why? Because their teachers, believing in their potential, gave them more encouragement, attention, and opportunities to succeed. This became known as the Rosenthal Effect, or the Pygmalion Effect—the idea that when we believe in someone’s potential, they are more likely to rise to it.
But this effect isn’t just about teachers and students—it applies everywhere. In workplaces, when leaders expect their employees to succeed, performance improves. In personal growth, when we believe in ourselves, we take more action toward progress. Expectations shape reality.
That’s why it’s so important for me to have an inner dialogue that encourages rather than discourages. Growing up, it was embarrassing to express a belief in myself. Self-development and positive thinking were seen as mystical or naive. But the truth is, it’s science.
When my inner dialogue pushes me toward higher potential, my mind is surrounded by words of encouragement, and that builds resilience—not delusion. It doesn’t make me randomly believe in myself; it helps me find proof that I can continue improving every day.
There have been times when I convinced myself I couldn’t do something because it “wasn’t for me.” Technology is a big one—new tools and systems can intimidate me. But when I believe I can figure it out, I take action. I read the steps, ask for help, and trust that this new challenge is something I can handle.
The Rosenthal Effect teaches us that expectations matter—not just from others, but from ourselves. What we believe is possible shapes the way we move through the world.
ACTION: Think about something you’ve been telling yourself you “can’t” do. What would change if you believed it was possible? Try shifting your mindset and taking a small step forward today.
