What is grit?
How do I invite my students to get some?
In a previous post I wrote about nurturing my piano students with compassion as they started school again. But, now I am singing the opposite tune. Am I sending a conflicting message?
Human nature looks for the path of least resistance and when it comes to learning to play the piano there is plenty of resistance. I find myself resisting the truth that playing slowly, without mistakes, leads to solid learning. I resist the truth that learning is not incremental. One day all the stars align and I sound awesome. The next day, I can't remember the notes. Yikes! Do I really have to practice everyday?
Nurturing grit is just as compassionate as consolation for a rough row to hoe. They are not mutually exclusive. I expect them both of myself.
Love this! Are you familiar with Angela Duckworth's book Grit? I noticed she also had a Ted talk. I've not had a chance to read her book yet.
ReplyDelete