The Power of Perseverance and Passion
Introduction:
Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of grit, or perseverance, as described by Dr. Angela Duckworth. Explain that grit refers to the ability to maintain effort and interest in pursuing long-term goals, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.
Discussion of Dr. Duckworth’s Ideas:
Introduce students to Dr. Duckworth’s research on grit and discuss key points from her book. Highlight the importance of perseverance, passion, and a growth mindset in achieving long-term success.
Definition of grit: Grit is defined as a combination of passion and perseverance. It involves having a strong sense of purpose and working diligently towards long-term goals despite setbacks and obstacles.
Grit as the key to success: Dr. Duckworth argues that while talent and intelligence are important, grit is the crucial factor in achieving long-term success and reaching one’s full potential.
Growth mindset: Grit is closely tied to having a growth mindset, which is the belief that abilities and skills can be developed through effort and practice. Embracing challenges and seeing failures as opportunities for learning and growth are essential components of grit.
Importance of passion: Dr. Duckworth emphasizes the role of passion in fostering grit. It is not just about hard work; it is about pursuing activities and goals that align with one’s interests and values. Passion provides the fuel and motivation to persist even when the going gets tough.
Effort and deliberate practice: Grit involves putting in sustained effort and engaging in deliberate practice, which is purposeful practice aimed at improving specific skills or abilities. Dr. Duckworth emphasizes that it is the quality and consistency of practice that matters more than mere quantity.
Resilience and bouncing back: Gritty individuals possess resilience and the ability to bounce back from failures and setbacks. They view obstacles as temporary hurdles and maintain their focus on long-term goals.
Cultivating grit: Dr. Duckworth provides insights into how grit can be developed and nurtured. She discusses the importance of fostering a growth mindset, setting clear goals, seeking feedback and mentorship, and building a supportive environment.
Application:
Ask students to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can apply the principles of grit to their goals and aspirations. Encourage them to identify specific actions they can take to cultivate perseverance and maintain motivation in pursuing their long-term objectives.
- What does having grit, or perseverance, mean to you? Encourage students to share their personal definitions and understandings of these concepts.
- Brainstorm a list of everyday situations that require you to have grit. Examples may include studying for exams, practicing a musical instrument, learning a new skill, or overcoming personal obstacles.
- What does Dr. Duckworth mean when she talks about “living life as a marathon?” Discuss the idea that achieving long-term goals is a gradual and continuous process, requiring sustained effort over time.
- What long-term goals do you have for yourself? Encourage students to think about their aspirations, whether academic, personal, or career-related.
- How do you keep yourself motivated to achieve your long-term goals? Explore strategies for maintaining motivation, such as setting smaller milestones, seeking support from others, visualizing success, or finding intrinsic enjoyment in the process.
Conclusion:
Wrap up the lesson by emphasizing the value of grit in personal growth and achievement. Encourage students to embrace challenges, view setbacks as learning opportunities, and commit to the long-term journey of pursuing their goals. Remind them that with passion and perseverance, they can overcome obstacles and accomplish remarkable things in their lives.