“Grit is not just a simple elbow-grease term for rugged persistence. It is an often invisible display of endurance that lets you stay in an uncomfortable place, work hard to improve upon a given interest and do it again and again.”
Sarah Lewis
I have tremendous respect for people with “grit.” The dictionary defines it as “firmness of character or indomitable spirit.” In fact, entire books have been written about the subject. (this is just one example, there are more but this is a particularly good one)
I respect those with “grit” not just because they have resilience and are able to grow through almost any circumstances with grace and aplomb, but because they are comfortable being uncomfortable. I think that is why this quote resonates with me so much, because it is hitting on what is so important for growth and success in today’s world. If you want to improve, you have to be comfortable getting uncomfortable regularly. The world is changing so fast that becoming comfortable can be the first step towards complacency. From complacency is a short and slippery slope to irrelevance…
The other part of this that I like so much is because it highlights the “invisible display” factor. A person with “grit” doesn’t have this trait to show it off for others. It is a real and internal attribute that helps them get through the tough stuff of life. It frames how they approach the world. The people that I have know who have a strong bent towards this trait don’t walk around showing or telling others how “gritty” they are. They are simply comfortable being uncomfortable and have relentless drive to overcome any challenge or situation, without letting that impact WHO they are and what they value.
Are you comfortable getting, and staying, uncomfortable in order to grow and learn?
2 Responses
Read “Grit” last year and it really provides good insight showing how grit can be developed. I was especially interested since I have two young boys in whom I plan to purposefully look for opportunities as they grow to instill a level of determination and perseverance.
That’s a great idea. Love that you are thinking of how to instill that in them from a young age. Awesome!