Invisible Child: Poverty, Survival, and Hope in an American City

by Andrea Elliott

There are some uncanny parallels between Duckworth’s research and the early views of Milton Hershey, who in 1924 said, “If a man does not like the work he does, he is not a success; if he loves his work, he does good work and lots of it.” Three years later, Milton told the aptly named Success magazine: “When you tackle a job, stick to it until you have won the battle.” Milton called this “character building.” Duckworth calls it “building grit.” She advises choosing one thing and learning it well—precisely what Milton demanded in his original deed of trust. If a student is deemed “incompetent” to “master a trade,” reads the trust, this is grounds for expulsion. But how to teach such mastery? Duckworth gave some pointers. Hershey’s houseparents should try to create “optimal conditions,” instilling in these children the discipline of “deliberate practice.” This is how Olympic athletes and professional musicians hone their skills. Children can do the same. They must set “stretch goals,” which are things they cannot yet do. They need instant feedback and constant repetition. When the goal is conquered, a new “stretch goal” is set.