Got Grit? What it is and why it matters for leaders and entrepreneurs!

Summary

The speaker discusses the critical role of grit in entrepreneurship and business leadership, emphasizing perseverance through challenges and setbacks. Drawing from conversations with successful Walsh College alumni, the speaker highlights that success often comes when one pushes beyond moments of doubt, uncertainty, and fear. Entrepreneurs and business leaders must commit to something bigger than themselves, especially during difficult times. The key to success often lies in pushing a little further when you're tempted to give up, as that’s when opportunities may arise. This applies to leadership, business, health, and fitness.

Takeaways

• 💼 Grit is essential for entrepreneurs, especially in overcoming challenges and setbacks.
• 🏢 Walsh College has recently opened its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
• 🎓 The college offers double master's programs, allowing students to save time and money while pursuing their education.
• 👥 Alumni from Walsh College attribute their business success to grit and perseverance.
• 💪 Grit involves pushing forward even when situations seem too difficult or overwhelming.
• ⚖️ It's not just about perseverance but also about committing to something bigger than oneself, despite fears and uncertainties.
• 🌐 Building and leveraging one's network is crucial for developing grit and succeeding in business.
• 📉 Business leaders and entrepreneurs will inevitably face setbacks, but pushing through those moments is vital for eventual success.
• 📈 Often, success is just beyond the point where one feels like giving up; perseverance can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• 🏃‍♂️ The concept of grit applies beyond business, extending to leadership, health, and fitness, emphasizing the importance of pushing beyond perceived limits.

Q & A

What role does grit play in the life of an entrepreneur?

Grit is essential for entrepreneurs as it helps them persevere through challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty. It's about showing up and continuing to push forward even when circumstances are difficult or seem impossible.

Why is this discussion about grit timely for Walsh College?

The discussion is timely because Walsh College recently celebrated the opening of their Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, highlighting their commitment to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. Grit is a key trait that is often discussed in the entrepreneurial world.

How does Walsh College support students in their entrepreneurial journey?

Walsh College provides opportunities for students to earn double master's degrees, saving time and money. The college offers resources through its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to support both existing small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.

What did the alumni from Walsh College identify as the key factor in their success?

The alumni credited grit as the key factor in their success. They highlighted the importance of perseverance, pushing through challenges, and continuing to move forward even when situations were tough.

How does grit manifest in the everyday life of an entrepreneur?

Grit manifests as the ability to keep moving forward, especially in times of fear, uncertainty, or failure. It involves getting up and committing to a larger purpose, even when it feels overwhelming or impossible.

What does it mean to have fortitude as an entrepreneur?

Having fortitude means continuing to work toward a goal when it feels like you can't go any further. It's about pushing yourself to move forward, even in moments of uncertainty, and committing to something bigger than yourself.

How does grit apply to leaders and business owners beyond entrepreneurship?

Grit is crucial for business leaders and owners in any role. Whether dealing with challenges in leadership, managing people, or navigating financial setbacks, perseverance is key to achieving success.

Why is it important to keep going even when facing setbacks?

Often, success is just around the corner, and many entrepreneurs find that when they push a little further, a new business or financial opportunity arises. Quitting too soon may cause them to miss these potential breakthroughs.

What kind of stories do successful businesspeople share about grit?

Many successful businesspeople share stories of how they were close to giving up or closing their business, only to find success after persevering through difficult moments. These stories highlight the importance of sticking with it, even in tough times.

How can grit be applied to personal life aspects like health and fitness?

Just as in business, grit can be applied to personal goals like health and fitness. It's often at the point where someone feels like quitting that pushing a little further leads to significant success in those areas.