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What matters, instead, is whether we are able to help her…

“What matters, instead, is whether we are able to help her develop a very different set of qualities, a list that includes persistence, self-control, curiosity, conscientiousness, grit, and self-confidence. Economists refer to these as noncognitive skills, psychologists call them personality…” quote by Paul Tough
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““What matters, instead, is whether we are able to help her develop a very different set of qualities, a list that includes persistence, self-control, curiosity, conscientiousness, grit, and self-confidence. Economists refer to these as noncognitive skills, psychologists call them personality traits, and the rest of us sometimes think of them as character.””

Paul Tough

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Developing noncognitive skills like persistence and curiosity shapes success beyond academic ability.

In simple terms: Building character traits matters for success.

Key Takeaway

Focus on nurturing grit and self‑control.

Themes

education personal development psychology

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • school curricula
  • workplace training
  • mentoring programs

Key Concepts

noncognitive skills personality traits character development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can schools better assess and foster these traits?
  • What daily habits build self‑confidence?
A Different Perspective

These traits are harder to measure and may be undervalued in traditional assessments.

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