Developing Grit Gerald Warren – College Counselor KIPP Houston High -2010-Present University of St. Thomas 1996-2010

Definition The power of Passion and Perseverance. Angela Duckworth. Talent X Effort = Skill Skill X Effort =Achievement Effort is the Key

Symptoms of Lack of Grit Blame Procrastination Complaining Excuses Easily giving up Low Self-esteem Focus on weakness Compares oneself unfavorably to others

Symptoms of Lack of Grit Sees problems as permanent Predicts defeat Assumes the role of victim Always looking for the easy way out (From On Course, by Skip Downing)

Possible Causes for lack of grit Smart Phones Over Parenting Focus on data results rather than skill Internet

What causes grit? Hard Work Pain, Suffering, etc. Practice Purpose Hope Time

Practical steps to increase grit Help students help themselves Stop hand-holding students Encourage taking personal responsibility for actions Teach students the language of responsibility Teach students to be creators vs. victims

Victims vs. Creators Victims focus on weakness Creators focus on how to improve Victims make excuses Creators seek solutions Victims complain Creators turn complaints into requests Victims compare themselves unfavorably to others Creators seek help from those more skilled Victims blame Creators accept responsibility Victims see problems as permanent Creators treat problems as temporary Victims predict defeat and give up Creators think positively and look for a better choice Victims try Creators do

Our Commitment Victim vs. Creator

Questions?