Key to Success: Determination

GRIT. We’ve all probably heard the word. But what does it mean and does it relate to us?
When we’re younger all we can dream about is being older and all the freedoms that await us. We dream of being successful and easy lives.

But unfortunately life is not a smooth ride. Grit is what determines who gets up after they fall down and who doesn’t.

Angela Lee Duckworth gave a talk on grit as a Ted talks conference entitled “The key to success? Grit” where she stated that grit was the biggest factor in determining who would be successful whether academically or professionally.

Grit is beyond prevalent in schoolwork. The grittiest kids are those who endlessly work hard, who get a bad test grade and then keep trying to raise their grade anyway.

An important part of planning for the future is preparing now. Although it seems far off college is right around the corner for every student at MN.

While colleges may look at ACT/SAT scores, activities, and volunteer hours, they also look at GPA.

Although not a perfect way to measure grit, grades generally reflect work ethic of a student. Anyone who is willing to study long enough, and truly apply effort to their academic endeavors will see that reflected in their grades.

Colleges are looking for the best and brightest to accept into their schools, but also those who are just willing to work hard.

Generally those who work the hardest are seen as brilliant but most simply spend increased amount of times focusing on scholarly endeavors instead of other activities.

Accepting someone is like an investment for a college, and they aren’t looking for a loose cannon for an investment they’re looking for a reliable applicant who can obtain a specified result.

As explained by Duckworth no one is really aware of how to teach grit. Instead it seems to be something someone can choose to possess and apply daily in their lives. So if you’re in need of a pick me up, why not try some grit?