Grit isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build over time.
It’s that stubborn, relentless spirit that keeps you moving forward,
even when the path gets tough. Whether you’re facing a grueling climb or
navigating the unpredictable world of business,
grit is the difference between giving up and reaching your goal.
I’ve faced challenges in both my climbing career and entrepreneurial journey
where everything seemed impossible. But it was my grit that kept me going.
Grit doesn’t just help you survive tough situations.
It helps you thrive through them and build long-term success.
Here’s how you can develop and nurture your own grit:
10 Steps to Building Grit for Long-Term Success
1. Know Your Why.
Grit begins with a purpose. When the going gets tough, remind yourself why you’re doing it. Your “why” will be the anchor that keeps you steady during the hardest moments.
2. Set Big Goals But Break Them Into Small Steps.
Huge goals can feel overwhelming, whether it’s reaching a mountain summit or scaling a business. Break those goals down into smaller, achievable steps. Each small win builds your grit.
3. Embrace Discomfort.
Growth happens in discomfort. The most difficult climbs — both literal and figurative — push you outside your comfort zone. Lean into the discomfort and you’ll build the resilience to handle anything that comes your way.
4. Develop Mental Toughness Through Consistency.
Grit isn’t built overnight. It’s about showing up every day, even when you don’t feel like it. Whether it’s training for a climb or tackling a business challenge, consistency is what strengthens mental toughness.
5. Turn Setbacks Into Lessons.
Every failure is a lesson in disguise. When I failed to summit a mountain on my first attempt, I didn’t see it as a failure. I saw it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Embrace setbacks as lessons that make you better.
6. Stay Focused on the Long-Term Vision.
Grit isn’t just about short-term effort. It’s about long-term commitment. Keep your eyes on the bigger picture and remember that enduring success comes from consistent effort over time.
7. Stay Adaptable.
In both climbing and business, the environment changes constantly. Sometimes, the path you planned won’t be the one you end up taking. Adaptability is key to building grit. Be open to changing your strategy when needed but never lose sight of your ultimate goal.
8. Build a Support System.
No successful climb is made alone and neither is any business venture. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and keep you accountable. Your grit will be amplified by the right support system.
9. Celebrate Small Wins Along the Way.
Building grit isn’t just about the end result. It’s about the process. Celebrate each small step forward, whether it’s overcoming a challenge or achieving a milestone. These victories fuel your perseverance.
10. Commit to the Long Haul.
Success isn’t a sprint. It’s a marathon. Commit to the journey, no matter how long it takes. Remind yourself regularly that every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goal.
The WYE Challenge
This week, choose one goal that requires sustained effort and commitment.
Break it down into small steps and focus on building grit as you tackle each one.
Share your progress with me. I’d love to hear about your journey.
The Next Step Toolkit
Book Recommendation: “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth
This book dives deep into the science of grit and perseverance.
It helps you understand why it matters and how to develop it for long-term success.
Grit is the foundation of every long-term achievement, whether in climbing, business, or life.
It’s not about avoiding difficulties. It’s about facing them head-on, learning from them,
and pushing forward. The more you build your grit, the closer you get to lasting success.
Let’s keep climbing.
Best,
Mark
What’s one setback you’ve faced and how did you turn it into a lesson that helped build your grit?
Comment below and let me know—I’d love to hear your story.
Let’s keep the conversation going!