What’s so special about ‘grit’?

In a world filled with buzzwords and self-help jargon, one term that stands out for its profound impact on success and achievement is ‘grit’.

Defined as “courage and resolve; strength of character” or “the strength of mind that makes it possible for somebody to continue doing something difficult or unpleasant,” grit has become a powerful concept in understanding what drives individuals to persevere and reach their long-term goals.

Defined as “courage and resolve; strength of character” or “the strength of mind that makes it possible for somebody to continue doing something difficult or unpleasant,” grit has become a powerful concept in understanding what drives individuals to persevere and reach their long-term goals.

Psychologist Angela Lee Duckworth's 2013 TED Talk on grit struck a chord with millions worldwide, amassing a staggering 30.3 million views over the decade. But what is it about grit that makes it so special? Duckworth had found in her research that “one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success. And it wasn't social intelligence. It wasn't good looks, physical health, and it wasn't IQ. It was grit.”

At its core, grit embodies passion and perseverance for those long-term goals we all aspire to achieve. It goes beyond mere ambition or short bursts of effort; it is the tenacity to stay committed to our visions day in and day out, even when faced with adversity or setbacks. Grit demands stamina, resilience, and an unwavering focus on the future, not just for a week or a month but for years on end.

Imagine life as a marathon rather than a sprint. In a marathon, runners must pace themselves, pushing through exhaustion and obstacles to reach the finish line. Similarly, individuals with grit approach life with the same enduring spirit. They understand that success is not an overnight journey but a gradual and often challenging process that requires continuous effort and dedication.

So, what makes someone ‘gritty’? Is it an inherent trait or something that can be cultivated?

Grit is not solely dependent on talent or intelligence. It is a mindset and a set of behaviours that can be developed over time. While some individuals may naturally possess a predisposition towards grit, it is ultimately a characteristic that can be nurtured and honed.

A critical factor in developing grit is having a clear and compelling vision of one’s long-term goals. When we are passionate about our objectives and can visualise the desired outcomes, we are more likely to endure the hardships and obstacles that come our way.

Another key component of grit is the willingness to embrace failure as part of the journey. Instead of viewing setbacks as roadblocks, gritty individuals see them as opportunities for growth and learning. They pick themselves up, learn from their mistakes, and use that knowledge to fuel their progress.

Moreover, fostering a growth mindset, as Carol Dweck’s research suggests, is instrumental in building grit. Believing that abilities can be developed through effort and dedication empowers individuals to persevere even when faced with challenges.

‘Grit' is a potent combination of passion and perseverance that sets the stage for remarkable achievements. It is a characteristic that drives individuals to stay the course, and is a quality that can be cultivated through a clear vision, a willingness to embrace failure, and the belief in the power of growth through effort.

So, the next time you face a daunting challenge or a seemingly insurmountable goal, ask yourself: “Am I gritty enough to see this through?” With the right mindset and determination, you might just discover the power of grit.

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