On Building Grit

On Building Grit: The Power of Prayer and Exercise

A few months ago, I had the privilege of being a panelist at the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) annual event. This organization holds a special place in my heart, not only because it was inspired by my former boss, but also because of the profound impact it has on the lives of young graduates. Imagine an organization that not only lights the way forward but also equips you with tools and knowledge passed down through generations. It enables each new cohort to learn and excel more rapidly. Many of our star analysts at Consonance —Tamilore, Chioma, Tejumade, Teni, Muhammad, and others—are products of NHEF, consistently impressing with their talent, professionalism, and drive.

During the panel, a NHEF scholar asked a question that has stayed with me: “How do you develop grit?” It was a moment that made me pause and think deeply. We all show grit in various ways throughout our lives, but how do we intentionally build it? The answer that came to mind was overcoming "rumination." This thought was likely influenced by a conversation with my wife earlier this year, who enjoys exploring interesting books and research. She shared insights on rumination and the power of prayer, sparking a connection in my mind between these concepts and the development of grit.

Understanding Rumination and Its Impact

Rumination is the act of repeatedly thinking about the same thoughts—often negative ones. It’s a mental trap that can significantly affect well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and a host of other mental health challenges. While reflection can be helpful for growth, rumination often traps individuals in a cycle of negativity, preventing resolution and leading to heightened stress, decreased problem-solving ability, and even physical health issues.

The triggers for rumination can vary: disappointments, negative feedback at work, financial concerns, or any of life’s many challenges. The problem with rumination is that it seldom leads to solutions; instead, it intensifies distress, erodes self-esteem, and increases the risk of mental health issues.

Connecting Rumination to Grit

So, how does this relate to grit? Grit is the quality of being determined, persistent, and resilient in the face of challenges. It’s the relentless drive to achieve long-term goals despite obstacles, failures, or moments of discouragement. Unlike talent, which may be innate, grit is cultivated through sustained effort and dedication.

By overcoming rumination, you clear the path for grit to take root. Removing negative rumination is the doorway to grit. It allows you to approach challenges with resilience, determination, and a forward-looking mindset. Your positive and corrective actions enable grit to grow.

The Power of Prayer

One of the methods I suggested for combating rumination and fostering grit is the power of prayer. Scientifically, prayer has been shown to impact the brain significantly. The parietal lobe, which gives you a sense of self, and the frontal lobe, responsible for executive functions like strategy and planning, are influenced by prayer. Research suggests that prayer reduces activity in the parietal lobe (which focuses on self) and increases activity in the frontal lobe, thus enhancing your capacity for executive function and reducing self-centeredness.

Prayer helps shift your mindset from “Why me?” to one of strategic thinking and problem-solving. It's a powerful mental reset that can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience. For those interested in exploring this further, this NPR article discusses the positive impact of prayer on the brain.

The Power of Exercise

The second method I suggested is the power of exercise. While I personally favor sprinting, the broader benefits of regular physical exercise are well-known. My first experience with the power of consistent jogging was during my first job in San Francisco. On my first day, colleagues invited me to join them for a 5-mile run—a daily regimen I had no idea about. I accepted the challenge, albeit with some difficulty. These colleagues also expected me to carry on a conversation while running. Though I didn’t match their pace that first day or year, and wasn’t as regular as they were, the experience was transformative, teaching me about the resilience required to push through physical discomfort—a lesson that applies equally to mental grit.

Exercise releases endorphins, promotes neurogenesis, reduces cortisol levels, and improves sleep quality. These benefits contribute not only to physical well-being but also to mental resilience. Setting small, achievable goals during exercise can also build grit, as each milestone reinforces your determination and resilience.

I’m not suggesting you run a marathon—leave that for those training for the apocalypse. Start with a manageable distance and gradually increase your speed or distance. My personal preference is small sprints, which, if you can still do in your 40s and beyond, is definitely a flex. The key is to find an exercise routine that you enjoy and make it a consistent habit.

How to Get Started

To make these practices actionable, here’s a simple guide:

1. Prayer: Start with a few minutes each day. Focus on gratitude and setting positive intentions. If you’re new to prayer, consider guided prayers to help you begin.
2. Exercise: Begin with short, manageable workouts. Whether it’s a 10-minute jog, a brisk walk, or a few sprints, set small goals and gradually increase your routine. Consistency is key.
3. Track Progress: Use a journal to note your mental and physical progress. Reflect on how prayer and exercise influence your mood, resilience, and overall well-being.

Conclusion

Disappointments, negative feedback, and challenges are as natural as breathing, so it’s crucial not to dwell on them through constant rumination. Instead, free your mind, cultivate grit through positive actions, and harness the power of prayer and exercise to build mental and physical resilience.

To all the champions out there, remember: grit isn’t about never failing; it’s about never giving up. Keep pushing forward, and success will follow.

All the best, champs!