"Why do some people succeed and others fail? Sharing new insights from her landmark research on grit, MacArthur genius grant recipient Angela Duckworth explains why talent is hardly a guarantor of success. Rather, other factors can be even more crucial, such as identifying our passions and following through on our commitments. Drawing on her own story as the daughter of a scientist who frequently bemoaned her lack of smarts, Duckworth describes her winding path through teaching, business consulting, and neuroscience, which led to the hypothesis that what really drives success is not "genius" but a special blend of passion and long-term perseverance. As a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, Duckworth created her own "character lab" and set out to test her theory. Here, she takes readers into the field to visit teachers working in some of the toughest schools, cadets struggling through their first days at West Point, and young finalists in the National Spelling Bee. Finally, she shares what she's learned from interviewing dozens of high achievers--from JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon to Bob Mankoff, cartoon editor of The New Yorker, to Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll. Grit is a book about what goes through your head when you fall down, and how that--not talent or luck--makes all the difference"--
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About the author
Angela Duckworth
Author
Angela Lee Duckworth is an American academic, psychologist, and popular science author. She is the Rosa Lee and Egbert Chang Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, where she studies grit and self-control. She is the founder and former CEO of Character Lab, a not-for-profit whose mission is to advance the science and practice of character development.
Grit
by Angela Duckworth
Books Like Grit
If you're looking for books similar to Grit, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
Atomic Habits
James Clear
Offers a comprehensive system for building good habits and breaking bad ones. Clear explains how small, incremental changes can lead to remarkable results over time. The book provides practical strategies for personal transformation through consistent, purposeful action. It resonates with Duckworth's emphasis on long-term commitment and systematic improvement.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
Carol S. Dweck
Explores how our beliefs about ability and potential shape our success. Dweck introduces the concept of fixed versus growth mindsets, demonstrating how people's views of their talents dramatically influence achievement. The book provides insights into how developing a growth mindset can enhance personal and professional development. It complements Duckworth's work by examining how mental attitudes impact long-term success and perseverance.
The Power of Habit
Charles Duhigg
Explores the science of habit formation and how it impacts personal and professional success. Duhigg reveals the neurological patterns that drive behavior and how they can be transformed. The book provides insights into creating lasting change through understanding habit loops. It complements Duckworth's work on persistence and personal development.
Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise
Anders Ericsson
Examines how individuals develop extraordinary skills through deliberate practice. Ericsson challenges the notion of innate talent, showing how focused, intentional effort can lead to exceptional performance. The research demonstrates that consistent, purposeful practice is more important than natural ability. This book resonates with Duckworth's emphasis on long-term commitment and perseverance.
Deep Work
Cal Newport
Examines the value of concentrated, distraction-free work in achieving exceptional results. Newport argues that the ability to focus deeply is becoming increasingly rare and valuable. The book provides strategies for developing intense concentration and producing high-quality work. It aligns with Duckworth's emphasis on deliberate, sustained effort.
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Daniel Pink
Investigates the science of motivation and what truly drives human performance. Pink argues that traditional rewards are not as effective as intrinsic motivation, autonomy, mastery, and purpose. The book reveals how understanding deeper motivational forces can lead to greater achievement and satisfaction. It aligns with Duckworth's exploration of passion and perseverance as key success factors.
The Obstacle Is the Way
Ryan Holiday
Applies Stoic philosophy to overcoming challenges and achieving success. Holiday demonstrates how obstacles can be transformed into opportunities through perspective and persistent effort. The book provides a philosophical framework for resilience and personal growth. It complements Duckworth's exploration of perseverance and mental toughness.
Outliers: The Story of Success
Malcolm Gladwell
Analyzes the complex factors that contribute to high levels of success. Gladwell explores how opportunity, timing, cultural background, and persistent effort intersect to create extraordinary achievements. The book challenges simplistic views of success by revealing the hidden advantages and dedicated practice behind seemingly exceptional individuals. It complements Duckworth's insights into the multifaceted nature of achievement.
Mastery
Robert Greene
Investigates the path to achieving exceptional skill and understanding in any field. Greene examines the journeys of historical masters and identifies common strategies for developing expertise. The book emphasizes the importance of passion, patience, and persistent learning. It resonates strongly with Duckworth's exploration of long-term success.
The Talent Code
Daniel Coyle
Investigates how skills are developed through deep practice, motivation, and neural connections. Coyle explores talent hotbeds around the world, revealing how concentrated, intense practice can dramatically improve performance. The book provides scientific insights into skill acquisition and the neurological basis of expertise. It aligns closely with Duckworth's research on persistence and skill development.
The Practicing Mind
Thomas M. Sterner
Offers a philosophical approach to skill development and personal growth through mindful practice. Sterner argues that the process of learning is more important than the end result. The book provides strategies for maintaining focus, reducing frustration, and enjoying the journey of improvement. It aligns closely with Duckworth's concepts of deliberate practice and persistence.
Mindful Grit
Bob Stahl
Combines mindfulness practices with strategies for developing personal resilience. Stahl explores how mindful awareness can enhance persistence and emotional strength. The book offers practical techniques for maintaining focus and overcoming challenges. It extends Duckworth's concepts of grit by introducing mindfulness as a supportive practice.
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