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Grit is, “firmness of character, indomitable spirit, courage in adversity, perseverance, tenacity, toughness.”
It’s that “stubborn refusal to quit.”
Employees with grit (also known as resilience) can carry on in the face of adversity. A good measure of grit is the ability to rebound when faced with an obstacle. For some, the obstacle might be too difficult and not worth attempting. For those with grit, the obstacle is something to conquer.
Dr David Batman, Consultant Occupational Health Physician and member of the Virgin Pulse Science Advisory Board, says mentally resilient employees (those who possess grit) can cope with challenging situations and spring back from challenges in the workplace.
Resilient employees:
- Display a positive and optimistic attitude
- Expect difficulties and challenges but don’t fear them
- See problems as opportunities and search for a solution
- Take a proactive approach to their physical and psychological health
- Exhibit significantly reduced risk of mental ill health
Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, was known for his incredible grit.
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”
Thomas Edison
It’s resilience in the face of adversity that’s truly essential for success.
The good news is that employees can raise their levels of grit and resilience. Developing a healthy, positive attitude as part of a workplace health and wellbeing program is a great place to start.
Want to learn more? Download the whitepaper: Grit – the will to overcome.