GRIT. Just my two cents.

I heard the word GRIT for the first time last night in reference to psychology.  I heard it while watching a TED the video at the link below:  

Now all I can think of is how do we teach children to be GRITTY?

GRIT: "Passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. 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. Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a
sprint." - Angela Lee Duckworth

As a 34 year old that didn't have the highest GPA or an extreme talent in one particular area, I have mastered and excelled in many different careers and life achievements.

This week I walked onto a university campus for the first time in ten years. I don’t just want to pay for more knowledge; I can honestly say I want more money. I need money so I can work less and volunteer and begin making a difference in this world.  To receive more money in my field,  I need more degrees. 

While waiting to meet with my advising counselor today I started thinking…….What has made me Gritty? What has given me strength to return to school after ten years, and what drives me to my ultimate goal of true happiness? 

Most importantly I learned work ethic throughout my childhood from my very strong parents. My father has worked for the same company since before I was born, and my mother has always has had an extreme sense of pride in everything she completes.  They also taught me that I would have to work for everything in life.  I hated learning this lesson the most. I am little further behind my peers in new cars, education, and home ownership, but there is a pride in doing it all financially by myself. I have never in my life lacked love and support from my family. I believe this is where my compassion came from. Observing my loving families actions while being the oldest of five
children taught me both compassion and perseverance. Athletics from the age of seven to adulthood taught me that failure is not permanent and can be overcome.  With these qualities and always striving for my own long-term happiness, my character has become “GRITTY”

I believe that the winning equation is supporting children in the achievement of their dreams.(ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE), and teaching them to confront the problems that arise in life with determination and not to just avoid them.  Lastly, what an amazing thing unconditional love does for children!! Its not just about IQ and talent its about perseverance. 

These are just my thoughts while sitting in line waiting to find out what other hoops I need to jump threw, to be a Washington State Cougar.