Grit – Angela Duckworth (B2 Level)

ULTIMATE READING

TEACHER IGNACIO CHAVEZ

9/6/20253 min read

Grit by Angela Duckworth is known for showing that success is not determined by talent but by passion and perseverance. The book has been recognized worldwide as one of the most influential studies on motivation and long-term effort. Duckworth explains that while talent is valued, it is perseverance that truly matters. Success is achieved when hard work and determination are combined.

Her message is clear: dreams will never be realized unless they are supported by consistent action. People with grit keep working, even when they are tired or uncertain.

1. What Is Grit?

Grit is described as the ability to keep going despite failure or frustration. It is defined as a mix of passion and persistence that allows people to reach long-term goals. According to Duckworth, no great achievement is reached without effort.

“Grit is passion and perseverance for long-term goals.”

Those who show grit don’t give up easily; they continue learning from mistakes. Their attitude is built on patience and self-discipline.

2. Passion: The Fuel for Grit

Passion is the emotional power behind perseverance. It is expressed when people care deeply about something and stay committed to it for years. True passion is not shown through temporary excitement, but through consistent effort.

Duckworth explains that motivation will be maintained only if a goal is meaningful. People’s dedication is strengthened by love for what they do.

“Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.”

In the future, those who stay passionate will be rewarded for their persistence.

3. Perseverance: The Power of Not Giving Up

Perseverance means continuing even when results are not visible. Failure is seen as part of the process, not as the end. Every challenge is used as a lesson that shapes growth.

Duckworth emphasizes that success will be achieved by those who keep trying after falling. Hard work is rewarded when people stay consistent.

“Our potential is one thing. What we do with it is quite another.”

If effort and persistence continue, improvement will be noticed over time.

4. Building Grit: A Skill That Can Be Developed

Grit is not inherited; it is developed through time and experience. People with a growth mindset believe that intelligence and ability can be increased with practice. Effort and repetition are required for mastery.

Duckworth shows that grit can be learned through discipline, reflection, and purpose. Every small step is valued as part of a greater journey.

“The key to success is not talent, but the ability to keep going, even when it’s hard.”

In the future, those who stay patient and consistent will be seen as examples of resilience.

5. Why Grit Matters

Grit is considered the strongest predictor of long-term success. Achievements in art, sports, or business are built through years of commitment. Quick results are rarely obtained, but deep growth is always earned through effort.

Duckworth explains that talent alone will not be enough; success will be determined by persistence.

“Grit is living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

People who stay committed will be remembered not for their talent, but for their consistency and courage.

Main Ideas

  1. Success is achieved through perseverance, not luck.

  2. Passion is maintained when goals have meaning.

  3. Failure is used as a tool for growth.

  4. Grit can be developed through practice and patience.

  5. True results will be earned only after years of effort.

Final Thoughts

In Grit, Angela Duckworth shows that no one is born successful — success is created through years of discipline and dedication. Great achievements are built on small actions repeated daily.

In the future, people who keep their goals clear and their hearts strong will be admired for their resilience. Duckworth’s work reminds us that potential means nothing unless it is acted upon.

“You don’t have to be the most talented. You just have to be the most persistent — because success is built, not given.”