Thoughts on Grit

Moxie, spirit, spunk and guts

Last week, two people in my life told me I have grit.

It was synchronistic, and at both times, their compliments meant a lot to me.

As a Taurus, I have always felt connected to some earthly, undisturbed, forward-moving motion. I do tend to tap into strength in a way that is deep and regular. But I also cry easily, prefer non-violent films and shows, and tend to wear my artist/writer heart on my sleeve.

For most of my life, these qualities didn’t match up or make sense to me, causing much inner turmoil. I struggled with low self-esteem and understanding how I fit in places as someone who was both tough and sensitive.

From late summer. A crepe myrtle was blooming like an organ with a background of arteries. Do you see it?

Well, in going down an Angela Duckworth¹ rabbit hole, it appears grit does not ascribe to an astrological sign or traits like introversion or extroversion. It’s a deeper quality. Something that helps you plot toward the unknown with passion and perseverance.

This got me thinking about the ways it’s always been there in my life, yet how there are nuances in how I relate to it now.

Like how I used to think about the music business as this place where I could achieve not only because I am someone who can endure, but also because I can endure difficult people (ha!). I am happy to report I no longer ascribe to this wonky way of thinking. Just because one is determined and gritty does not mean that one is uniquely gifted or required to deal with disrespect. Yes, we will all encounter difficult people in life, but I now have so much more self-respect and self-knowing than to tolerate it these days—and so I carry on!

I also used to think it was a badge of honor to minimize my emotions, remain stoical, and not complain about my challenges. Well, these days, I’m much more inclined to slow down and allow what’s bubbling below the surface to offer me release and new information. There is a mysterious intelligence behind emotions I now honor and then, let go.

And finally, I used to think that pushing was the way. Always pushing. Letting anxious thoughts and fear of failure to fuel me from one thing to the next. I’m grateful to say, I’m less inclined to pushing and more keen on pursuing. Seeing out the bigger picture. Celebrating my achievements, even when no one else is watching, and knowing that my grittiness is actually connected to something in my tender heart. And a synonym for spirit.

I did not intend to distill down my thoughts on grit today, but I am curious. Have you ever been told you’re gritty? How did it make you feel? What comes to mind when you hear the word? Comment below and if you enjoyed reading this, tap that little heart button. Those make my day :)

I’ll leave you with my new song, Love Carry On, whose lyrics and place in the world are not unrelated to grit as well ;)

Sending love,

Nellen

1. https://angeladuckworth.com/; Grit researcher, academic and psychologist