In this brief TedTalk (approx. 6 minutes), psychology researcher Dr. Angela Lee Duckworth explains her theory of “grit” as a key predictor of success in life.
“In all those very different contexts, one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success. And it wasn’t social intelligence. It wasn’t good looks, physical health, and it wasn’t IQ.
“It was grit.
“Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day-in, day-out. Not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years. And working really hard to make that future a reality.
“Grit is living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
Intelligence is awesome – until it gives up. Grit is the fuel that keeps one’s I.Q. continually applied to life’s toughest problems.