Grit
Grit is the character of being passionate and having persistent determination in order to achieve long-term objectives. Grit is a better predictor of success because it involves working vigorously and effortlessly towards solving challenges, despite the failures that one may encounter on the way to success.
A “preoccupation with talent” is harmful because people who succeed in talents are likely to forego other essential attributes like grit, creativity, emotional intelligence and stability, and physical attractiveness. These attributes help people to have an extra pair of hands in life. Unlike only talented people, gritty people, for instance, are able to work effortlessly in facing and solving challenges if it means failing for a long time.
Duckworth described the goal hierarchy as consisting of low-level, mid-level, and top-level goals. The lower level goals are certain goals that include calling back a missed call by a business partner. The mid-level goals explain the importance of the low-level goals and include the importance of calling back the business partner. When one realizes the importance of calling back, they have reached the top-level goal, which is the end. The goal hierarchy prepares an individual to be gritty.
The four psychological assets that mature paragons of grit have in common are purpose, hope, interest, and practice. Hope gives the assurance to keep going even when things are tough. Interest builds passion in one’s course, while the purpose is the main reason behind doing something. Practice involves continuous effort and undivided attention towards achieving one’s goal.
The studies support Duckworth’s argument that the achievement of long-term goals requires other attributes like grit. For instance, in study 1, it was grit that contributed highly to the achievement of high levels of education. From personal experience, I agree with Duckworth. I must say that grit highly contributed to my achievement of the first degree.
Reference
Duckworth, A. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and Passion for Long-Term Goals. The University of Pennsylvania.