What is the main difference between people who succeed in life and those that do not? Recent research is finding that the one characteristic that is emerging as a significant predictor of success is not social intelligence, good looks, physical health, or IQ. It’s grit.

Grit is living life like a long journey, not single moments in time.

“Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals,” says American psychologist Angela Lee Duckworth, who currently spearheads some important studies into the role grit plays in success. “Grit is having stamina,” she continues. “Grit is sticking with your future, day in, day out, not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years, and working really hard to make that future a reality.”
Duckworth herself is the first to say that the essence of grit remains elusive.

In the next few posts, we will go over the 5 key characteristics that seem to get to the heart of what makes up Grit.

Today we will go over courage.

More then physical bravery courage is the triumph over fear and doubt. Courageous people act when others are quiet. They stand up to wrongdoings when others do not. They continue to fight the good fight long after others have given up. They have patience and belief in themself and others. You will find courageous people saying no when everyone around them is saying yes. They are also quick to forgive and move on. They stay the course.

Where are you at on the courage characteristic? Is this a strong area for you? Or could you use some work on this one?

Think of a time you were courageous, and then think of a time you were not. What was the difference between these two times?

Remember that this is a long game, and we are always improving. Identifying successes and failures will help us continue down the path of growth.