This week from The Forklift: Grititude

I believe gratitude is the fuel that allows us to be gritty, they are deeply intertwined.

I find most people think of grit as mental toughness—the ability to push through pain, adversity, and uncertainty. But I think true grit begins in a deeper place…it begins with our perspective, our philosophy. When we’re grateful for what we have, rather than being consumed by what we don’t, it’s easier to move forward despite the challenges we face. It’s easier to pick ourselves off the mat and charge again when we truly understand our fortune.

There is a part of the brain called the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC), which plays an important role in evaluating effort, navigating discomfort, and persisting toward meaningful goals. It’s wired to drive our willingness to push through uncertainty and tough things. And what I find the coolest…is that there is compelling research that shows this part of the brain grows stronger in people who have overcome adversity, or who consistently attempt to do hard things. Our grit is like a muscle.

If you’re struggling to overcome an obstacle, or afraid to take that first step even, turn to gratitude before your grit. If you’re still breathing, you have every reason to be grateful, you just need to think it through and change your philslophy.   Grit helps us keep moving forward, but gratitude reminds us why the journey is worth it.

That’s what I call Grititude.

Author: Matt Miller

Matt Miller has done many things in his young life...in addition to just surviving. In 2002, Matt left behind person he once was as his life was suddenly changed forever by a horrendous mountain climbing accident. Diving for his falling father, Matt fell over 4,000 feet before miraculously stopping just short of the ragid cliffs. Through a night of survival and pain, Matt persevered but lost most of his fingers and toes as a result from frostbite. Matt does everything from public speaking, one-on-one consulting, firm strategy, as well as company retreat facilitation. With a seasoned investment background and passion for educating the investment world, Matt also can't resist sharing his comments from time to time on markets. Matt is also an avid ultra runner and outdoor enthusiast...with a big love for spending time in the Grand Canyon.