The Importance Of Grit, The Power Of Success

In the United States, the most prominent philosophy is hard work, grit, and determination will guarantee success. In many cases, this philosophy holds true. Many Americans--enjoying exotic vacations and extravagant possessions--enjoy superlative lives. Angela Duckworth, author of Grit, the Power of Passion and Perseverance, exclaims “...grit still predicts success. Regardless of specific attributes and advantages that help someone succeed” (12). However, many of the grittiest Americans still never achieve their own ideas of success. Unfortunately, people who encompass grit may cause more harm than good; gritty people frequently desire goals that are unaccomplishable and even strive for said goals with no purpose. Therefore, grit does not necessarily predict success because people regularly overwork and overwhelm themselves with the importance grit. Many individuals’ aspirations are essentially unaccomplishable, no matter the level of effort and grit. Angela Duckworth states “It was this combination of passion and perseverance that made high achievers special” (8). For instance, a person whose ambition is to be a doctor has to endure extensive training and persist through many years of education, proving their grit in the process. However, a person who wishes to be a doctor

“Gritty people sometimes exhibit what psychologists call ‘nonproductive persistence’: They try, try again, though the result may be either unremitting failure” (Kohn). When people think of grit, they often think of the positive outcomes associated with passion and perseverance. However, grit can have some irreparably damaging effects on an individual. Never feeling accomplished or satisfied with their achievements, these people are often too gritty for their own good. “Persistence can actually backfire and distract from more important goals.” (Kohn). Without purpose, it is virtually impossible to be successful through