In Jerry Useem’s “Is Grit Overrated?

As you begin striving toward your professional goals and future careers, you may notice the term “grit” popping up in more and more motivational speeches, college applications, and job descriptions. Merriam-Webster defines “grit” as “a small hard sharp particle (as of sand)” or “firmness of mind or spirit : unyielding courage.” It is this second definition which has given “grit” new life, becoming a watchword for businesses and colleges across the nation, emblazoned across highway billboards and university marquees.

In Jerry Useem’s “Is Grit Overrated?Links to an external site.,” the author explores this latest branding of self-determination by speaking with Angela Duckworth, University of Pennsylvania psychology professor and author of Grit. Read Useem’s article, which both explores and critiques Duckworth’s concept of “grit,” and respond to the questions below.

One of Duckworth’s most revelatory discoveries is how truly successful people deal with feelings like “frustration, disappointment, [and] boredom.” What does Duckworth argue that people with “grit” do with these emotions that separates them from their less-successful counterparts?

While Duckworth continues to emphasize the importance of “grit” for achieving one’s goals, how does the article’s author prove to us that many businesses and clients actually do not prefer “grit”? Provide particular examples from the article to reinforce your points.

What does Jerry Useem argue are the drawbacks of making our challenges more visible? What does the author of the article state, though, is beneficial to being more open about our difficulties? Do you, personally, feel that being transparent about the struggles of success is good or bad? Why?

Useem also critiques Duckworth’s focus on “directional consistency.” What specifically does “directional consistency” mean, and why does the author believe that this might hinder someone’s success? Can you think of another reason why “directional consistency” might be more damaging to success than helpful? Explain yourself fully, using specific examples and details.

Sample Answer

In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth defines directional consistency as “the ability to stick unswervingly to a long-term goal.” She argues that this is one of the key ingredients of success.

Jerry Useem, in his article “Is Grit Overrated?”, critiques Duckworth’s focus on directional consistency. He argues that it can be harmful because it can lead people to become too focused on their goals and to ignore other important things in their lives. He also argues that it can lead people to become too rigid and inflexible, which can make it difficult for them to adapt to change.

Full Answer Section

One example of how directional consistency can be harmful is in the case of someone who is trying to lose weight. If this person is too focused on their goal of losing weight, they may become obsessed with calorie counting and exercise and may neglect other important aspects of their lives, such as their relationships or their work. This can lead to burnout and to a loss of motivation.

Another example of how directional consistency can be harmful is in the case of someone who is trying to start a business. If this person is too focused on their goal of starting a successful business, they may be unwilling to take risks or to adapt to change. This can make it difficult for them to succeed in the business world.

Of course, directional consistency is not always harmful. In some cases, it can be essential for achieving success. For example, if someone is trying to become a professional athlete, they will need to be very focused on their goal and to be willing to put in a lot of hard work.

However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of directional consistency. If you are too focused on your goals, you may neglect other important things in your life and you may become too rigid and inflexible. It is important to be willing to adapt and to change course when necessary.

Here are some other reasons why directional consistency might be more damaging to success than helpful:

It can lead to tunnel vision, which can make it difficult to see opportunities that are outside of your chosen path.
It can make you less resilient in the face of setbacks.
It can make you more likely to give up when things get tough.

Ultimately, whether or not directional consistency is helpful or harmful depends on the individual and the situation. It is important to be aware of the potential dangers of directional consistency and to strike a balance between being focused on your goals and being open to change.

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