Psychologist Angela Duckworth discusses the concept of 'grit' for success, her transition to a public intellectual, advice for founders, and the impact of community support. She emphasizes the need for perseverance and purpose in achieving goals, highlighting her journey from consulting to teaching to psychology.
Success hinges on 'grit,' a combination of passion and perseverance, not innate talent.
Building a network of mentors and seeking guidance are essential for professional growth and success.
Deep dives
Introduction of Rapid Response. The Urgent Issues in Business
Rapid Response, hosted by Bob Safian, is launching its own feed focusing on urgent business-related topics faced by leaders. The emphasis is on timely insights for business decisions, aiming to provide up-to-date information for leaders. The podcast's expansion signals a shift towards more frequent shows to address crucial real-time challenges in business leadership.
Angela Duckworth's Educational Journey & Pivot to Psychology
Angela Duckworth, known for her work on grit, delves into her transition from a science major interested in teaching to becoming a psychology professor. Her experience of realizing the impact of environments on learning, rather than solely focusing on innate talent, drives her exploration into motivation and achievement. Duckworth's pivot from pre-med to studying human development highlights the importance of following one's curiosity and finding the right career fit.
Struggles in Teaching & Transition to Consulting
Transitioning from teaching to consulting at McKinsey, Angela Duckworth faced challenges in motivating students and grasping effective teaching methods. The shift from corporate consulting back to education was prompted by a desire for a more impactful role in public schools. The contrast in resources and challenges between corporate consulting and teaching underscored the complexities of motivating learning effectively.
The Role of Mentoring & Community in Professional Growth
Reflecting on the importance of mentors and community support, Angela Duckworth emphasizes the value of seeking guidance and building relationships to enhance professional growth. Founders and professionals are encouraged to cultivate networks of like-minded individuals for mutual learning and support. Acknowledging the myth of the lone entrepreneur, Duckworth advocates for the power of collaboration and mentorship in achieving long-term success.
Success looks different for everybody. But author and psychologist Angela Duckworth has found that whether we achieve success, or even seek it, may hinge on a characteristic that she calls “grit.” Angela’s 2016 bestseller Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance quickly became a must-read for business leaders. On Masters of Scale she describes her unlikely path to scaling the impact of her work, through becoming a public intellectual. We hear why she studied commonalities among high-achieving individuals, her top advice for founders, and why grit alone is not enough. Plus we get the scoop on Angela’s next book!
Angela discussed her inspiration for distilling complex ideas into accessible wisdom: psychologist William James and his Talks to Teachers.