By: Dr. Yam
If you’ve been in the workforce long enough, you’ve been managed by great leaders and not-so-great leaders. Most often, the best leaders were approachable, practical, and out-of-the-box thinkers. Likely, they would be considered gritty.
Whether you are line staff, in management, or an entrepreneur, having grit is going to set you apart from the herd. Being able to withstand criticism, get creative, and solve problems that others can’t or won’t solve will catapult you to new heights, leaving the others back on the ground to watch in amazement.
No matter how you earn your income, the goal is to rise to the top of your market and command the lead wherever you can. Here’s how having grit matters in your professional life has its benefits:
Increase the ability to work smarter, not harder - The grittiest people know that outcomes are not tied to time, they are tied to effort. It isn’t about how much time you put into a project; the key is to work smart. Grit discovers ways to increase productivity, identify key concepts, and discover missing aspects that others overlook. A prime example of this would be Timothy Ferris and his block-busting best-seller The Four Hour Work Week.
Increased know, like, and trust factor - Let’s be honest; people who get stuff done have the respect they are due. Being a dependable leader that can say “yes” to any challenge is going to rise to the top. Fortune favors the bold is a Latin proverb reminding us that the spoils go to the ones who take risks, do more, and stand out. This is definitely a product of grit!
More promotions and raises - Generally speaking, unless you work for a union with scheduled raises and promotions, getting a salary increase or more responsibility comes from effort. In this competitive market, it takes more to stand out and break free from the crowds. Having grit and being able to do what others can’t or won’t will ensure you are front-and-center when it’s time for raises and promotions. Author of The Memo, Minda Harts shares her experience and provides insights on how women of color can succeed in their careers. She offers this through straight talk on how to navigate networking, office politics, and money, while showing how to make real change to the system.
More stamina and problem solving skills - Projects oftentimes require early mornings, late nights, juggling family, and multiple pressures. An entrepreneur breaking from side-hustle to full-time independence is going to have to endure long hours to accomplish their goals and may have to work two jobs at once. Grit develops the stamina it takes to commit to the long term gain while suffering the short-term pain. Taking risks and failing results in learning valuable lessons that create excellent problem-solving skills.
Earning income is a necessary part of life. Making as much money as possible with minimal effort is ideal. Rising to the top of your profession and being seen as a competent leader with an outstanding reputation is a worthy goal. Grit is the secret ingredient to an outstanding career or small business ownership.
About Dr. Yam:
Yamilette “Dr. Yam” Williams, Ed. D is the Keep It Simple Coach to aspiring and new entrepreneurs and owner of Synergy Solutions Partners, a national education and leadership consulting firm. Her weekly blog posts revolve around her 5 building blocks that one needs to successfully launch their dream biz idea. To learn more, visit and connect with Dr. Yam on Facebook, LinkedIn, andInstagram.
Comments