The psychological definition of GRIT is a positive non-cognitive trait that involves perseverance of effort to accomplish a long-term goal no matter what obstacles or adversities, lay within a “gritty” individual’s path. It turns out you can measure GRIT.

Angela Duckworth, a University of Pennsylvania researcher measured the influence of GRIT on twelve hundred first-year West Point cadets.

The test, which took about two minutes to complete, was uncannily accurate predicting, whether or not, a cadet succeeded. Her test far exceeded West Point’s complex set of predictive criteria, including IQ, psychological test results, grade-point averages, and physical fitness. Her GRIT test has since been used to predict success in schools, business and a variety of other settings.

Ms. Duckworth’s research (along with many others in her field of study) has confirmed that "GRIT is essential to high achievement.” In simple terms … successful people have a lot of GRIT. The great thing about GRIT is it isn’t inborn. It can be developed like a muscle, so you can teach people they can overcome adversity if they have:

• Clear goals
• Determination despite others’ doubts
• Self-confidence about figuring things out
• Understanding that things don’t come easy
• Persistence despite fear
• Patience to handle the small stuff
• Flexibility in the face of roadblocks
• Loyalty
• Inner strength to reach your goals
• Optimism
• Conscientiousness
• Tenacity
• Initiative

If you have these … then you have TRUE GRIT.