DEFINITION:
Within the context of personality psychology, the colloquial expression “grit” refers to an affective trait consisting of the ability to endure adversity in the pursuit of one’s goals.
“Grit” may superficially appear to be akin to traits such as “conscientiousness.” However, “conscientiousness” and related cognitive traits focus on obeying rules and fulfilling one’s duty.
“Grit,” in contrast, emphasizes overcoming misfortune, adversity, and personal peril, placing a cherished value above all other considerations.
In short, “grit” is a form of “courage,” not “conscientiousness.”
ETYMOLOGY:
The colloquialism “grit” was introduced into the personality psychology literature by Angela Duckworth (b. 1970) in 2007, in the multi-author paper “Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals” (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92: 1087–1101), for which she was the lead author.
Duckworth later popularized her ideas in her book, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, published in 2016, which was aimed at a general audience.
The English noun “grit,” originally meaning “hard, sharp granules,” is attested from around the twelfth century. It derives, via Middle English grete, from Old English grēot. The Old English word is akin to Old High German grioz, meaning “sand.”
The metaphorical meaning, listed fourth under the entry “grit” in Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, is “firmness of mind or spirit; unyielding courage in the face of hardship or danger.”
DISCUSSION:
Angela Duckworth defines “grit” as the combination of “passion and perseverance.”
The concept of “perseverance” is certainly a crucial aspect of “grit”; however, the idea of “passion” needs further clarification. Having “grit” is not just a matter of feeling “passionate” about something. It is about subordinating oneself to a higher purpose.
“Grit” is an existential concept. An individual with a lot of “grit” is willing to sacrifice his or her very life for the sake of an ideal they cherish.
“Grit” is related to, but distinct from, such personality traits as “resilience,” ‘resolve,” “tenacity,” and “determination.”