The parenting habit that sparks grit, curiosity and long-term success in kids

Every parent hopes to raise children who are resilient, determined and capable of navigating challenges with confidence. According to Angela Duckworth a renowned psychologist, grit researcher and University of Pennsylvania professor achieving this does not require strict routines or pressuring children into activities as reported in CNBC.

Instead, the key lies in something surprisingly simple: paying close attention to what naturally interests your child. When kids are guided toward passions they genuinely enjoy, they develop the grit, perseverance and self-belief needed for long-term success.Expose them to options — then watch what excites themRather than pushing a specific sport or instrument, Duckworth encourages parents to create opportunities.

Let kids explore different extracurriculars, hobbies and creative pursuits. The goal isn’t to fill their schedules, she notes, but to observe what captures their imagination when no one is watching.

On an episode of The Mel Robbins Podcast, Duckworth explained that noticing the things children think about on their own, what they talk about, search online, reread or revisit can reveal the early seeds of passion. “When we tune into what naturally holds their attention, we’re helping them uncover interests that can lead them to mastery,” she said.

Interest builds grit — especially when kids stick with itDiscovering an interest is only the first step. Duckworth emphasizes that learning to stick with something, even when it becomes dull or difficult, is crucial. Whether it’s finishing a season of sports or practicing an instrument until the next recital, seeing a commitment through builds resilience.This doesn’t mean forcing a child to stay in an activity forever.

It simply means helping them understand the value of effort that progress often requires pushing through temporary frustration.A real-life example: when small clues reveal big passionsDuckworth shared a personal story about her daughter Lucy. Although Lucy disliked homework and violin practice, Duckworth noticed a different pattern: her iPad tabs were filled with baking tutorials, and she often flipped through family cookbooks.Following this clue, Lucy began helping in restaurant kitchens, first washing dishes and eventually assisting pastry chefs.

From eighth grade through high school, weekends and summers revolved around baking a passion that continues into adulthood.Duckworth uses this example to show how children often reveal their true interests in subtle ways. Parents simply need to pay attention.Interest alone isn’t everything — skill matters tooNot every passion becomes a career, and that’s perfectly okay. NYU professor and bestselling author Scott Galloway advises students not to rely solely on passion, as it doesn’t always translate into financial stability.

Instead, he suggests identifying strengths and mastering them through years of deliberate practice.Duckworth agrees that interest is only one part of building grit. Her research identifies four components: interest, hard work, purpose and hope. Together, they shape a child who can stay committed, find meaning in challenges and bounce back after setbacks.Great parenting isn’t about choosing the perfect sport or hobby for a child. It’s about watching closely, offering encouragement and helping children pursue what genuinely fascinates them. When kids follow their natural curiosity and learn to persevere through challenges, they build the grit and determination needed to thrive both now and in the future.