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this week's insight - the power of grit

June 04, 2025

This past week has been a bit of a whirlwind — work pressures, tough conversations, unexpected tension. In the middle of it all, I found myself feeling a little untethered. Like I’d lost sight of where I was heading, or why I was pushing so hard in the first place.

But I’ve come to realize that it’s in moments like these — the blurry, messy ones — that holding onto our dreams becomes even more important. They’re not just distant goals; they’re our anchors. Quiet reminders of the life we’re trying to build, even when we’re too tired to articulate it.

In the middle of that haze, I ended up revisiting an old Freakonomics episode that I remembered loving, featuring psychologist and author of Grit Dr. Angela Duckworth. In it, she shares her now widely known framework on grit — not as a fixed trait or raw talent, but as the sustained pursuit of something meaningful over time.

Duckworth defines grit as “passion and perseverance for long-term goals.” And as I listened again, that idea landed even harder. Especially her reminder that grit isn’t some innate trait you either have or don’t — it’s something you can grow. Slowly. Intentionally. Through setbacks, through repetition, through showing up on the days you don’t want to.

There was one phrase that especially stuck with me: learning to substitute nuance for novelty. Not chasing the next thrill, but staying with the thing long enough to really find your meaning in it even when it seems too tough. That felt like a message I needed to hear this week.

“Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint”

Angela Duckworth

The Power of Grit in Pursuing Long-Term Goals
Dr. Angela Duckworth defines grit as “passion and perseverance for long-term goals.” It’s not about being the most talented — it’s about staying the course, especially when progress slows or obstacles arise. Grit, at its core, is about commitment over time.

Her research outlines four key components that help us build grit: interest, deliberate practice, purpose, and hope. It begins with curiosity and deepens through focused, effortful improvement. Over time, it evolves into something that connects to a broader purpose — and is sustained by hope, the belief that even in setbacks, growth is possible.

So if things feel uncertain or you're struggling to stay connected to your goals, this may be the moment to pause — and reconnect to the deeper reason behind it all.

Reconnecting with Your 'Why'

Take two minutes today to reflect on the core reason behind your aspirations:

  1. Find a quiet space and close your eyes.

  2. Visualize whatever you’re dreaming to do—what does achieving it look and feel like?

  3. Ask yourself: "Why is this important to me?"

  4. Write down your thoughts in a journal or note-taking app.

Reconnecting with your 'why' can reignite motivation and provide clarity during challenging times.

The Done List Ritual

When things feels overwhelming, our to-do lists can become sources of stress rather than motivation. Instead of focusing solely on what's left to accomplish, try shifting your perspective by creating a "Done List."

How to Practice the "Done List" Ritual:

  1. At the End of Your Day: Take a few minutes to reflect on what you've accomplished, no matter how small.

  2. Write It Down: List tasks you've completed, such as:

    • Responded to important emails

    • Took a 10-minute walk

    • Prepared a healthy meal

    • Reached out to a friend

  3. Acknowledge Your Efforts: Recognize the progress you've made and the effort it took, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment.

  4. Celebrate Small Wins: Understand that each completed task is a step toward your larger goals.

By focusing on what you've done, you build momentum and foster a positive mindset, making it easier to stay motivated and resilient during times that are challenging. 

Emily Kasriel:
Deep Listening

Emily Kasriel, an author and coach, brings together research and real-life stories to guide us into the practice of Deep Listening. It’s a way to connect across differences, to build bridges instead of walls, and to find more presence in every conversation.

June 5th |
Virtual

V

Vienna Pharaon:
The Origins of You

During this retreat, you will embark on a journey of emotional healing and personal growth. Through guided introspection, practical exercises, and group discussions, you will identify and heal the core wounds from your Family of Origin. You’ll leave equipped with the tools to break free from limiting patterns, master conflict, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships. This is your chance to heal old wounds and rewrite your life story with clarity and confidence.

June 6th - June 8th |
Boone, NC

Mark Nepo:
You Don’t Have To Do It Alone - The Power of Friendship

This retreat centers on Mark Nepo’s new book, You Don’t Have to Do It Alone: The Net of Friendship. New York Times best-selling author, poet, and spiritual teacher Mark Nepo will explore the gift and spirit of friendship, for friendship is indispensable. You may discover your dearest friends in the dark labyrinth of seeking truth together. Or, in a moment of feeling vulnerable, you may feel safe in the care of some trusted other.

June 27th - June 29th |
Rhinebeck, NY

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