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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.