June 3, 2025
Extension Takes True Grit
Have you wondered what makes for an effective long-term extension professional?
Is it one that has been in the system for a long time and is accomplished in the profession? It may not be by happenstance. Instead, I would say, it is more likely due to grit.
The concept of grit is defined as passion and perseverance for long-term goals. Gritty people are those that are persistently working hard towards goals and maintain their effort over a long period of time despite setbacks that come their way.
Those with high grit approach obstacles in a positive manner and don’t abandon goals even if there is no positive feedback. Gritty people are resilient, self-reliant, hardworking and passionate towards achieving long-term goals.
Gritty people are passionate about their work and goals and have a strong drive to accomplish goals that they like and value. Individuals with high levels of grit show greater work engagement, relatively higher retention rate, and have high self-efficacy compared to those with less grit.
Long-term extension professionals are passionate about their work and making a difference in the community. They find satisfaction in their work and overcoming challenges both personally and in the workplace.
These may include personal things such as stress, fear and burnout. Obstacles at work may include matching programming with audiences, working with boards and conflict with colleagues. Each challenge requires perseverance and passion to overcome in order to succeed as an extension professional.
Are you a gritty person? Take this survey to learn your grit score, then learn more about grit.
Whether you are a seasoned agent or just beginning in this profession, there are ways to develop grit, including clarifying your goals, discovering your passion with respect to programming, being deliberate in working on your goals, knowing your purpose, and practicing being optimistic in your personal and professional life. Everyone has the capacity to become gritty.
Yes, extension takes true grit. Are you gritty enough?