Grit by Angela Duckworth

Summary

In 'Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,' psychologist Angela Duckworth explores the crucial role of grit—defined as a blend of passion and long-term perseverance—in achieving success. Drawing on research, personal anecdotes, and interviews with high achievers, Duckworth argues that talent alone isn't enough; what truly sets successful people apart is their relentless commitment to long-term goals. The book provides practical advice for cultivating grit in oneself and fostering it in others, emphasizing the importance of resilience, hard work, and an unwavering sense of purpose.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Talent is overrated; sustained effort and deliberate practice matter much more in achieving mastery.

2. Passion cultivated over years is as important as perseverance—stay engaged with what matters deeply to you.

3. Failure is not a permanent setback but an opportunity to learn, adapt, and build resilience.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2016

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 91

Practical Examples

1. West Point's Beast Barracks

   Duckworth explains how the military academy at West Point used her Grit Score to predict which cadets would endure the grueling initial training. Despite numerous markers like SAT scores and physical fitness, grit proved to be the most robust predictor of success.

2. Spelling Bee Champions

   Duckworth studied finalists in the National Spelling Bee and found that winners spent more time practicing and used more effective, focused study techniques. Their grit and intense preparation—not just innate intelligence—determined their success.

3. Seattle Seahawks' Coach Pete Carroll

   Coach Carroll integrated grit principles into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing mental toughness and perseverance over short-term victories. His leadership created a culture focused on continuous improvement and resilience, which translated into on-field success.

4. Duckworth’s Teaching Experience

   Duckworth shares her years teaching seventh graders, finding that those who showed passion and persistence improved more than those who relied on natural ability. She saw firsthand that effort and perseverance were better predictors of long-term success.

5. Growing Grit from the Inside Out

   The book details strategies for fostering grit, such as cultivating a growth mindset and setting 'stretch goals.' Duckworth suggests regularly reflecting on setbacks, learning from feedback, and maintaining focus on one's purpose, making grit a skill anyone can develop.

6. Family Influence on Grit

   Duckworth emphasizes the impact of supportive yet demanding parenting, showing how families can balance encouragement with high expectations to teach kids persistence. Children who are challenged, but not overwhelmed, tend to develop the grit that leads to future success.

7. Self-Control versus Grit

   The book distinguishes grit from self-control. One example discusses how self-control helps with daily decisions, but grit fuels pursuit of overarching, long-term goals. Duckworth illustrates this with stories of individuals who maintain focus on their life's calling, not just immediate impulses.

8. Effort Counts Twice

   Duckworth introduces the concept of 'effort counts twice'—talent x effort equals skill, and skill x effort equals achievement. She explains how deliberate practice and persistence multiply the impact of whatever natural talent a person has, using real-world success stories.

9. John Irving's Writing Journey

   Novelist John Irving struggled with dyslexia, but through years of dedicated effort and revision, he became a celebrated writer. Duckworth uses Irving’s story to demonstrate how perseverance can transform obstacles into strengths.

10. Goal Hierarchy

    The book outlines a model of setting 'top-level goals' supported by smaller, intermediate goals. Achievers organize their lives around overarching purposes, making everyday decisions that build toward their ultimate ambitions and demonstrating grit through consistent prioritization.