Blog 3: Talent is Overrated

 

The Science of DevelopingMental Toughness in Your Health, Work, and Life, by James Clear dives deep into what it takes for an individual to become mentally tough. The clear answer provided was grit. Grit is defined as courage and resolve; strength of character. It was grit, passion, and perseverance that made the difference in achieving long-term goals. James Clear noted that in a study performed by Angela Duckworth on Ivy League undergraduate students, that in every area in your life, from education to work to your own health, sheer determination and grit will get you to the level of success that you deserve. Examples of ethos is presented with the author, James Clear. He uses his expertise in behavioral psychology and research studies to establish credibility on the topic of mental toughness. He also cites a researcher, Angela Duckworth, and her study on West Point cadets to further support his claims. Pathos is present in the text by the author’s appeals to the reader's emotions by suggesting that mental toughness is what sets apart successful people in various areas of life, and that it is more important than one's talent or intelligence. The use of real-life examples, such as the West Point cadets and Ivy League students, helps the reader connect with the topic on a personal level. The final rhetorical appeal shown is logos. The author uses logical reasoning and research to support his argument that mental toughness is key to success in life. He cites the results of Angela Duckworth's study, which found that grit, not intelligence, was the strongest predictor of success for West Point cadets. He also provides additional examples from other fields to reinforce the importance of mental toughness.