Carol Dweck's research has unearthed the concepts of "Growth Mindset" and "Fixed Mindset" which have radically changed how we view human potential and the power of effort. If we are to build learning environments and homes that encourage the development of a Growth Mindset, we'll need to understand how our words and actions as adults influence the mindsets of our children and students.
Check out this lecture Dr.Dweck gave at Google or review this helpful book summary for an overview of the concepts!