Lecture on Angela Duckworth's Work on Grit

Introduction

Speaker: Angela Duckworth, Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, Founder and Scientific Director of the Character Lab.
Book: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Achievements: MacArthur Fellow (2013), extensive research on grit, self-control, and non-IQ competencies predicting success.
Background: Founded a summer school for low-income children, management consultant at McKinsey, teacher in public schools, degrees from Harvard, Oxford, University of Pennsylvania.

Grit involves the power of passion and perseverance
As important as IQ and talent in predicting success
Addresses the societal emphasis on innate talent and IQ
Key traits: continuous improvement, showing up, dedication to mastering challenges.

Observation: Talent is the rate of skill acquisition with effort.
Google's Perspective: High interest in innate talent, considering grit would ensure selection of individuals who stick with challenges.
Duckworth’s View: More talent doesn't guarantee persistence; high achievers show daily commitment to improvement.
Importance of daily discipline, “Kaizen” principle of continuous improvement.

Example from Running:
- Undirected practice: Running same route, listening to podcasts, no goal setting or feedback.
- Directed practice (Deliberate Practice): Specific goals, 100% focus, immediate feedback, continuous refinement.
Deliberate practice is problem-solving oriented and intentional.

Leaders model behavior and set examples for teams.
Important leadership traits: high standards combined with support and care.
Leaders influence cultural identity through behavior—setting a culture of excellence.

Challenges: Grit scale subjective, susceptible to “frame of reference bias.”
In Academia: Grit more connected with broader academic achievements than just standardized test scores.
Better Indicators: Consistent achievements, extracurricular engagements, long-term commitments in the resume.
Duckworth’s Advice: Triangulating information from various sources (resumes, peer reviews, performance tasks) for hiring.
Practical hiring approach: Investigate candidates’ past consistencies and growth in different areas.

Example of Julia Child: Found her passion for cooking late but followed incremental steps driven by curiosity and passion.
Grit in Educational Systems: Narrow focus on standardized tests neglect broader skill development, engagement in meaningful activities.

Choosing What to Be Gritty About:
- Follow interests observed since adolescence and align them with personal values and broader purpose.
- Accept some trial and error and course correction in career paths.
Combining Grit and Corporate Goals:
- Combine grit with realistic assessment of the industry's future and opportunities.
- Emphasize continuous learning and adjustment to changing environments and industries.
Cultural Influence on Grit:
- Example of Finnish concept “Sisu”: national identity entwined with perseverance, illustrating cultural impact.
Grit Measurement in Corporate Settings:
- Real-world applications: Trials and tasks to demonstrate perseverance, rather than subjective assessments.
Commonality of “I'll Show You” Attitude:
- Rebellion as a response to doubt or discouragement—common among gritty individuals.
- Leads to commitment and perseverance through challenges.

Grit involves sustained passion and perseverance, critical in various domains from individual careers to corporate success.
Leaders play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of grit through behavior and values.
Important takeaways: Continuous practice, reflection, intention and alignment with broader goals lead to building and supporting grit.