Two mindsets on ability: Fixed-ability and growth mindsets.  Interesting quotes follow:

• “I think intelligence is something you have to work for…it isn’t just given to you… Most kids, if they’re not sure of an answer, will not raise their hand… But what I usually do is raise my hand, because if I’m wrong, then my mistake will be corrected. Or I will raise my hand and say… ‘I don’t get this. Can you help me?’ Just by doing that I’m increasing my intelligence.”
• In relationships, growth-mindset people looked for partners who would push them to be better, fixies just wanted someone who would put them on a pedestal