What is Grit? The Science of Passion and Perseverance

Grit is defined as passion and sustained persistence applied toward long-term achievement, with no particular concern for rewards or recognition along the way. It was popularized by psychologist Angela Duckworth, whose TED talk and book "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" brought the concept to mainstream attention.

The Two Components of Grit

Passion (Consistency of Interest)

This isn't about intensity of feeling. It's about consistency—the degree to which you maintain focus on the same high-level goal over a long period. It's about knowing what you want and sticking with it.

Perseverance (of Effort)

This is the hard work component. It's about continuing to work hard, day after day, even when progress is slow, or when you encounter obstacles. It's resilience in action.

Why Grit Matters

Academic Success: Research shows grit is a better predictor of GPA and graduation rates than IQ or SAT scores.
Competition: Grit predicts who advances in national spelling bees and military training (West Point).
Career: Grittier salespeople are more likely to keep their jobs; grittier teachers are more effective.

Can You Grow Your Grit?

Develop Interest

Passion starts with intrinsically enjoying what you do. Explore different activities until you find something that truly fascinates you.

Deliberate Practice

Focus on improving specific weaknesses. Seek feedback. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, not threats to your ego.

Culture of Grit

Surround yourself with gritty people. Join teams, groups, or organizations that value and reinforce perseverance.

Disclaimer: This test uses the validated Grit-S (Short Grit Scale) developed by Angela Duckworth. While a useful self-assessment, it is for educational and personal development purposes only. Grit is just one predictor of success; other factors like opportunity, support, and skill also matter significantly.

Grit Scale (Grit-S)

1. New ideas and projects sometimes distract me from previous ones.

2. Setbacks don't discourage me. I don't give up easily.

3. I often set a goal but later choose to pursue a different one.

4. I am a hard worker.

5. I have difficulty maintaining my focus on projects that take more than a few months to complete.

6. I finish whatever I begin.

7. My interests change from year to year.

8. I am diligent. I never give up.

9. I have been obsessed with a certain idea or project for a short time but later lost interest.

10. I have overcome setbacks to conquer an important challenge.

Your Grit Profile