Episode Details

Is grit really the secret to success—or have we oversimplified it? In this episode of The Shrink Down, Too Legit To Quit: The Truth About Grit, we unpack the psychology behind grit—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters. Drawing on the work of Angela Duckworth, we explore how passion and perseverance shape long-term achievement in academics, sports, and life. But we also examine the nuance: when does grit build resilience, and when can it turn into unhealthy persistence? We discuss how anxiety, fear of failure, and perfectionism can interfere with grit in today’s youth—and why a growth mindset is essential for sustainable motivation. Most importantly, we break down practical ways parents can foster perseverance without pushing their children toward burnout. Because grit isn’t about grinding at all costs. It’s about knowing when to push, when to pivot, and how to stay in the marathon.