Grit Book Summary

In "Grit," Angela Duckworth explores the transformative power of perseverance and passion in achieving long-term goals. Through compelling research and real-life stories, she argues that talent alone isn’t enough; it’s grit—the relentless pursuit of excellence—that truly sets successful individuals apart. Duckworth delves into the science behind grit, revealing how it can be cultivated in ourselves and our children. With practical insights and strategies, she challenges readers to rethink their approaches to success and resilience. Are you ready to uncover the secret ingredient that can supercharge your ambitions?

By Angela Duckworth

Published: 2016

"Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare."

Book Review of Grit

In this instant New York Times bestseller, Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent, but a special blend of passion and persistence she calls “grit.” “Inspiration for non-geniuses everywhere” (People). The daughter of a scientist who frequently noted her lack of “genius,” Angela Duckworth is now a celebrated researcher and professor. It was her early eye-opening stints in teaching, business consulting, and neuroscience that led to her hypothesis about what really drives success: not genius, but a unique combination of passion and long-term perseverance. In Grit, she takes us into the field to visit cadets struggling through their first days at West Point, teachers working in some of the toughest schools, and young finalists in the National Spelling Bee. She also mines fascinating insights from history and shows what can be gleaned from modern experiments in peak performance. Finally, she shares what she’s learned from interviewing dozens of high achievers—from JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon to New Yorker cartoon editor Bob Mankoff to Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll. “Duckworth’s ideas about the cultivation of tenacity have clearly changed some lives for the better” (The New York Times Book Review). Among Grit’s most valuable insights: any effort you make ultimately counts twice toward your goal; grit can be learned, regardless of IQ or circumstances; when it comes to child-rearing, neither a warm embrace nor high standards will work by themselves; how to trigger lifelong interest; the magic of the Hard Thing Rule; and so much more. Winningly personal, insightful, and even life-changing, Grit is a book about what goes through your head when you fall down, and how that—not talent or luck—makes all the difference. This is “a fascinating tour of the psychological research on success” (The Wall Street Journal).

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Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.

Grit

By Angela Duckworth