Angela Duckworth in her book Grit, The Power of Passion and Perseverance examines what grit is and how to get it. She teaches that grit is fueled by a passion for what you do, which enables you to persevere through challenges and setbacks consistently because of a compelling purpose.

The story is told of three bricklayers who were asked what they were doing. The first said he was doing a job. The second said he was building a wall. But the third said he was building a cathedral. Although the three of them were in the same role, their perspectives, and hence their results, were different. One thought of it as only a job, the second as a career and the third as a calling. A calling provides purpose and enables grit.

I am sure you have noticed that in certain residential communities some owners have unkempt lawns while others have well-manicured lawns. Some even add the extra touch of flowers and lush plants. The difference is in the level of pride each owner takes in their landscape and how much they enjoy maintaining it. Pride and enjoyment in what you are doing promotes grit.

Does your brand indicate you have grit? Do you have a passion for what you are doing? Have you found your purpose? If you are not functioning in your calling now allow your vision of doing so to fuel your drive to get to that sweet spot. Sometimes finding passion in your occupation may even take time, according to Angela. Let your vision enable your grit.

Whether you realize your purpose immediately or need to embark on a journey of discovery to find it, strive to perform your role as if it is your calling. With such a work ethic, your personal brand will thrive, and you may even be rewarded with opportunities you never imagined. Even if you are lower than you want to be on the grit scale now, you can still grow.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11)