How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character
Why Grit, Curiosity, and Character Matter More Than IQ in Creating Successful Lives
About This Book
Unleash a new vision of success grounded in science, real-life challenges, and the hidden strengths that drive achievement. This work transforms our understanding of how children overcome adversity by shifting attention from test scores and raw intelligence to the vital roles of persistence, self-control, curiosity, and character. Through compelling stories from classrooms, communities, and research labs, you'll discover actionable strategies to build resilience, foster motivation, and unlock lifelong learning — in yourself, your family, or your students. Whether you're a parent, educator, or driven individual, this journey will arm you with concrete tools for cultivating lasting achievement and inner strength.About the Author
Paul Tough is a leading science journalist and education thought leader known for investigating the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and social policy. His acclaimed work explores how adversity, parenting, and schools shape the lives of young people. By integrating academic research with real-world narratives, he provides practical, nuanced guidance for those seeking to boost achievement and well-being. Tough’s writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine and The New Yorker. His evidence-based, compassionate approach makes complex science accessible and meaningful to educators, parents, and anyone shaping the next generation. He continues to challenge assumptions about success, intelligence, and what it takes to thrive.
Biggest Takeaway
By engaging with these insights, you'll develop stronger resilience, greater emotional intelligence, and more effective problem-solving skills. Expect to see improvements in managing setbacks, cultivating perseverance, and fostering better relationships at home, at school, and in the workplace. You'll become more adaptive to stress, better equipped to help others (or yourself) recover from adversity, and able to turn failures into opportunities for growth and success. Measurable benefits include higher motivation, more consistent habits, and a toolkit for nurturing success in yourself and those you mentor.
Key Insights from This Book
Explore the most important ideas and learn how to apply them in your life.
Why Character Strengths Outperform IQ for Long-Term Success
How Stress in Childhood Shapes the Brain and Self-Control
How Early Attachment and Parental Warmth Shape Resilience and Future Success
Overcoming the Achievement Gap by Targeting Executive Function Skills — Not Just Content Knowledge
Turning Setbacks into Growth: The Power of Optimism, Grit, and Growth Mindset
Why Too Much Self-Control Can Backfire: The Paradox of Conscientiousness
Mastery and Motivation Are About 'Choosing,' Not Just 'Wanting'
Unlocking Character Growth with Mental Contrasting and Implementation Intentions (MCII)
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