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Book Notes: Angela Duckworth — Grit: Why passion and resilience are the secrets to success
People who persevere over the long run excel in business, school, and life in general. This book from the leading researcher on the topic describes how we can improve our grit and encourage it in others.
The Book
Duckworth, A. (2017). Grit: Why passion and resilience are the secrets to success. London, UK: Vermillion.
Review
Grit has become quite a hot topic in education and psychology. It describes the propensity of some people to persevere over long times, even when the going is tough and there are few or no rewards. Angela Duckworth’s research shows that business leaders, professional athletes, academics at the top of their field show high levels of grit and that grittier people do better across all fields. Fortunately, her research also shows that grit is something that can be developed. This book is an excellent overview of her research. Rather than presenting just the dry facts, the book brings the concept to life through interviews with grit paragons from different walks of life and through personal anecdotes from Dr Duckworth. There are also many practical tips on how grit can be fostered at work and at home, with special tips for parents who want to encourage grit in their children. I found it especially illuminating that the book discusses how the work on grit fits in with other research, e.g. the concept of “flow” and “growth mindset”. This book is perfect for educators, parents, and anyone who is interested in productivity and performance.
Top Quotes
Rather than focus on what they already do well, experts strive to improve specific weaknesses. They intentionally seek out challenges they can’t yet meet.
We all face limits — not just in talent, but in opportunity. But more often than we think, our limits are self-imposed.
… all children really need the same thing: appropriately demanding challenges in combination with consistently warm and respectful support
