Questions About Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

by Angela Duckworth (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (6)

How much of this book is backed up by tangible data and how much is survivor bias?

Stetson Jesse Singal's new book The Quick Fix has a chapter that discusses the lack of empirical support/statistical confounding of Duckworth's claims about G…moreJesse Singal's new book The Quick Fix has a chapter that discusses the lack of empirical support/statistical confounding of Duckworth's claims about Grit. There are two major issues. First, she's basically reinvented a measure for trait conscientiousness, which pre-existed her work and for which variance in is significantly explained by genetic variation. Second, IQ is still a better standalone predictor for life outcomes than other non-cognitive psychological traits like grit or conscientiousness. This isn't to say all of Duckworth's work and claims are bogus or uninteresting or not compelling for other reasons, but she is overselling them.(less)

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Hi, Does this book address the issue as to how does one build perseverance and persistence? Regards, A

Cora As Marissa said in the other answer, this book does have a section on that and it is in a few other places. However, that really isn't the main focus …moreAs Marissa said in the other answer, this book does have a section on that and it is in a few other places. However, that really isn't the main focus of this book. I'd say if you are mainly looking for a "how-to" type book with practical examples and ideas to put into place in your life then I wouldn't recommend this book. If you want to learn more about Grit and examples and studies that were done and statistics on Grit - then I'd recommend this book. (less)

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I am reading this book right now and am finding that it is giving me Grit. I actually thought I had grit but I don't think I am gritty enough. It is teaching me to keep my focus on what I am doing until it is done. This has been an issue for me in that past. I get frustrated and give up but now I am going to grit my way through it. Thank you Angela. What is your best guess about what my success will be?

Rish Fernando Hey, what I believe from reading this amazing book and multiple other articles from many different people, is that the harder you believe or have grit…moreHey, what I believe from reading this amazing book and multiple other articles from many different people, is that the harder you believe or have grit for something, the more results you will get. There will probably be no instant gratification but you can expect better and better results depending on the way you refine and hone your skills along the way.
P.S. You might have already read the book by now. Hope my reply still helps though.(less)

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Would this book be appropriate for a 12 year old?

MxLakritz That would probably depend on the interests of the 12 year old. It's written in accessible language and the author uses many stories and examples to i…moreThat would probably depend on the interests of the 12 year old. It's written in accessible language and the author uses many stories and examples to illustrate her arguments and research findings. And content-wise, nothing in the book seems inappropriate for a young teen. But it remains a research psychology driven non-fiction book primarily targeting an adult audience.(less)

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What other books can I keep reading to keep building my "grit muscle" ?

Don's Bookshelf I would say that Can't hurt me by David Goggins is very much along the same lines of inspiring https://amzn.to/3lF9Fg7 at least it was to me
…moreI would say that Can't hurt me by David Goggins is very much along the same lines of inspiring https://amzn.to/3lF9Fg7 at least it was to me
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Unanswered Questions (2)

Thoroughly enjoying this book which was recommended by a high flying CEO?

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I loved this book. It's anecdotal stories ring true, but it is largely anecdotal. Does anyone else have a problem with her characterization of the ACT test as an IQ test? I think of it as a grit test. The problem is how its used, you think?

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