Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth – Book Summary
How effort, not talent, shapes our long-term success – and why it matters. Introduction: Why Read Grit? Published in 2016,
Angela Duckworth
Angela Duckworth: Unraveling the Science of Grit, Passion, and Perseverance
Angela Duckworth, born in 1970 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is an American psychologist, academic, and author best known for her research on “grit” — the combination of passion and perseverance that drives long-term achievement. As a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and CEO of Character Lab, Duckworth has become a leading voice in the science of human motivation and success.
Duckworth earned her bachelor’s degree in neurobiology from Harvard University, followed by a master’s in neuroscience from the University of Oxford, and a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania under Martin Seligman, founder of the positive psychology movement. Before entering academia, she taught math in public schools in New York City, Philadelphia, and San Francisco — an experience that deeply influenced her understanding of effort, potential, and learning.
Her 2016 book, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, became a #1 New York Times bestseller, sparking global discussion about what drives success beyond innate talent. Drawing on years of empirical research, Duckworth demonstrated that sustained effort and intrinsic motivation predict achievement more accurately than IQ or external circumstances. The book has been translated into over 40 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide.
Duckworth’s TED Talk, “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,” has been viewed more than 30 million times, making it one of the most popular talks in the platform’s history. Her research has influenced educational policy, corporate leadership programs, and even U.S. military training frameworks.
As founder and CEO of Character Lab, a nonprofit organization that advances the science and practice of character development, Duckworth collaborates with educators and researchers to apply behavioral science insights in classrooms and organizations. Her academic work, published in journals such as Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and Psychological Science, continues to refine understanding of self-control, motivation, and goal-setting.
In recognition of her contributions, Duckworth has received a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship and has been named among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people. She serves on boards and advisory councils for educational and philanthropic initiatives worldwide.
Duckworth’s philosophy centers on the belief that grit is not just about endurance, but about passion sustained over time — the determination to pursue meaningful goals despite obstacles. Through her research, writing, and public engagement, she has reshaped global perspectives on achievement, resilience, and the psychology of effort.