Knowledge Building:
Our definition of empowerment is to make people stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their lives and achieving full potential. Grit is sticking with things over the long term as you master them, which is a key factor in successful performance.
Grit isn’t just about working hard—it’s about showing up, staying committed, and pushing forward even when things get tough. Research by psychologist Angela Duckworth shows that grit—more than talent or intelligence—is a key predictor of success. But here’s the thing: grit isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something leaders can coach and develop. So, how can you empower and coach grit in your team? Let’s break it down.
Strategy #1: Connect Work to Passion and Purpose
People don’t grind through challenges just because they’re told to—they do it because they believe in what they’re working toward. Leaders who help their teams connect their daily efforts to a bigger purpose unlock intrinsic motivation, stronger work ethic, and long-term engagement. Ask your team: “What impact do you want to make?” “How does this challenge align with your long-term goals?” When people see meaning in their work, they push harder, stay engaged, and commit fully.
Strategy #2: Reinforce Daily Discipline Over Big Goals
Grit isn’t about giant leaps—it’s about consistent, deliberate practice. Instead of focusing only on big wins, coach your team to show up and improve just 1% every day. Research in habit formation shows that small, daily improvements lead to massive long-term gains. Encourage consistency over intensity. Celebrate progress, not just perfection. Focus on the next right step, not the entire staircase. Grit is built in the daily work—not in that brief moment at the finish line.
Strategy #3: Shift the Mindset From Failure to Learning
Setbacks happen—but gritty people don’t quit, they adjust. As a leader, coach resilience by normalizing struggle as part of success. When a team member faces a challenge, ask: “What can we learn from this?” “How can this make us stronger for the next opportunity?” “What’s one thing you’ll do differently next time?” Reframing obstacles as learning experiences keeps people engaged instead of discouraged.
Strategy #4: Hold High Standards AND Provide Support
Grit isn’t just about pushing harder—it’s about having the right support to keep going. The best leaders challenge their teams while also providing the resources, feedback, and encouragement needed to succeed. Set clear, high expectations—but also ask, “How can I support you in getting there?” Push for accountability—but also recognize effort and persistence, not just results. Be firm on goals but flexible in approach—help your team problem-solve, not just struggle. This balance of challenge and support creates an environment where grit thrives.
Strategy #5: Model Grit in Your Leadership
You can’t coach grit if you don’t model it yourself. Leaders set the tone. Show your team what commitment, resilience, and persistence look like in action. Be transparent about your own challenges and how you overcome them. Stay consistent in your leadership, even when things get hard. Demonstrate a growth mindset by actively learning and improving yourself. Grit is contagious—when leaders show up with perseverance and purpose, their teams will too.
In summary, grit isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working with purpose, discipline, and resilience. As a leader, your ability to coach and empower grit determines how engaged, accountable, and driven your team will be.