Grit: More Than Just a Motivational Buzzword
I attended a graduation where a guest speaker shared about grit (not the kind you might get in your shoe). The grit she described is a combination of passion and perseverance toward long-term goals. It’s the mental stamina to keep striving for an objective despite obstacles, failures, or slow progress. Admittedly, I rolled my eyes when the speaker droned on about this. Just another self-help pep talk from a book written by someone with good intentions.
Even though I wasn’t a fan of the speech, the concept has stuck with me because I know it is important. I actually need more of this in my life. Tough times come and challenges arise in many areas of life. Determination and tenacity (synonyms to grit, if you prefer) help get us through the hard places.
Flight Training Tests Your Determination
I became keenly aware of my need for grit when I started flight training. Struggles and failures seem to loom at every turn (and bank). While still training, I have to be brutally honest with myself (and my flight instructors) that at times I just don’t understand, am not making good progress, or struggling to meet standards. I have left some flights feeling discouraged and disappointed in myself. Questions, doubts, and frustrations beckon me to give up. Why did I choose to do this? Can I actually succeed? Will I ever improve?
Scribbling in my journal and talking to friends and family has helped to lift my spirits and try again. But I am realizing that talking through failures and foibles with fellow pilots has given me a great source of inspiration. As a customer service rep, I am privileged to hear a lot of aviation stories … stories of trials, failures, great fun, and adventure. I have also been a witness to pilots’ blood, sweat, and tears (quite literally).
The Power of an Encouraging Aviation Community
This community of pilots, when willing to share experiences, creates encouragement to be gritty. I have seen others dig in their heels and commit to becoming better pilots: another hour of power-off 180’s in the pattern, another attempt at crosswind landings, another trip to the practice area to improve maneuvers. The list goes on. When I see other airmen work hard and acknowledge that flight training and proficiency takes practice, I am motivated to do the same thing.
I doubt that the many who share their stories or come into the lobby hot and tired after a sweltering flight realize that they are inspiring. But they are. I see their dedication and tenacity. I see their grit. And it has caused me (and hopefully others) to try again, to not give up. I’m sure that reading a book about grit is a good use of time. But to see that spirit in action is an entirely different thing. It is unforgettable.
Keep Showing Up and Keep Flying
For the sake of redundancy (and to spur you on), grit is a combination of passion and perseverance toward long-term goals. It’s the mental stamina to keep striving for an objective despite obstacles, failures, or slow progress. Happy flying!