A few years ago I came across this fantastic Ted Talk about grit. I recently happened upon it again. Hands down one of my favorite Ted Talks ever.

The speaker, Angela Lee Duckworth discusses the importance of grit in our lives.

She defines grit so unique it’s almost magical.

“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.”

Grit, she says, “is a significant predictor of success.” However, what we do know about grit is extremely limited.

If it can help predict success; I’m sure a lot of people are asking how we can get some! Amiright?

Grit like any muscle; must be developed. It requires you to play the long game day in and day out. You take the road less traveled and never go back to find the beaten path.

Jenn Lofgren suggests developing grit through these eight practices.

1)Work with your feelings, validate them don’t ignore them.

2) Get comfortable being uncomfortable – Do things that stretch you

3) Keep an eye on the big picture – Learn your why behind everything you do.

4) What’s your source of motivation? Why do you WANT to do it?

5) Develop simple repeatable resiliency habits. A personal mantra is an example.

6) Get clear on what is in your control and what’s out of your control. Then choose to let go and focus your efforts on what is in your control.

7) Set reasonable expectations.

8) Focus on the next step, not the finish line.

So, are you ready to get gritter about getting gritty?