From Wikipedia:
Grit in psychology is a positive, non-cognitive trait based on an individual’s perseverance of effort combined with the passion for a particular long-term goal or end state (a powerful motivation to achieve an objective). This perseverance of effort promotes the overcoming of obstacles or challenges that lie on the path to accomplishment and serves as a driving force in achievement realization. Distinct but commonly associated concepts within the field of psychology include “perseverance”, “hardiness”, “resilience”, “ambition”, “need for achievement” and “conscientiousness”. These constructs can be conceptualized as individual differences related to the accomplishment of work rather than talent or ability. This distinction was brought into focus in 1907 when William James challenged the field to further investigate how certain individuals are capable of accessing richer trait reservoirs enabling them to accomplish more than the average person.
Link to the rest at Wikipedia
PG suspects grit is more important for success in writing (and many other pursuits) than IQ, education and a variety of other social measures of aptitude and intelligence.
The nice thing about grit is that it can be developed by a great many people and background, age or prior failure does not bar its development.
AKA Mental toughness.
“PG suspects grit is more important for success in writing (and many other pursuits) than IQ, education and a variety of other social measures of aptitude and intelligence.”
So true. I know people with genius IQs who can’t focus on a task or communicate with others. I’ve also worked with those with so-so ability to learn, but are so determined, they eventually “get it” and succeed.
“Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.” – Angela Duckworth in Grit
“… age or prior failure does not bar its development.”
But sometimes age or prior failure helps create it(grit). 😉