Many of us grapple with the challenge of starting actions but struggle to maintain the momentum over time. We start new projects and actions with a lot of enthusiasm but gradually this excitement wanes and we feel lost….sometimes even demotivated.
This challenge of initiating actions but struggling to maintain momentum is one of the most common hurdles in the journey to success.
The key to overcoming this lies in a powerful trait known as Grit
Grit is defined as passion and perseverance for long-term goals. It plays a pivotal role in turning aspirations into accomplishments. Research by psychologist Angela Duckworth suggests that grit is often a more reliable predictor of success than talent alone. It’s the force that keeps you moving forward when the initial excitement begins to fade.
Here are a few steps you can take to cultivate Grit and sustain momentum to achieve your goals:
- First and foremost, recognize that setbacks are part of the process. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Studies show that reframing difficulties as stepping stones rather than roadblocks increases perseverance. Don’t be too hard on yourself and give yourself credit for your efforts.
- Maintain a clear vision of your long-term goals. Regularly revisit and revise your objectives, ensuring they align with your passions. This constant realignment helps you stay connected to your purpose, reinforcing your commitment to the journey. Reviewing and re-reading your written goals every week is a powerful way. Try it out for 2 months and feel the impact.
- Incorporate deliberate practice into your routine, a concept championed by psychologist Anders Ericsson. Focused, intentional effort in areas of weakness fosters skill development and enhances resilience, key components of grit. Make sure your to-do list includes clear actions you have identified for yourself as must do things for achieving your goals.
- Establish a support network. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals and seeking guidance from mentors can provide the encouragement needed to navigate challenging times. Engage frequently with your network to seek new ideas and reflections on your progress. I recommend at least one engagement every fortnight, even better if you have a wider network and connect with at least 1 connection every week. If pressed on time, even a short phone call can be considered.
- Celebrate your achievements along the way. It fuels your motivation to persevere. As you embark on your journey to cultivate grit, remember that progress, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. Set time aside to reward yourself and celebrate both with yourself and with others.
By embracing the power of grit, you can transform mere actions into sustainable progress and lasting triumphs.
I am just a call away if you want to chat about personalised actions you can take to ensure sustainable achievement of your goals and aspirations. Connect with me now.
Suggested reading: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance – Prof. Angela Duckworth