Grit in Business: Insights from Ben Malcolmson
Can grit be cultivated in business as effectively as in sports? Can we actively enhance our own grit in daily life? These compelling questions were at the forefront during a recent presentation by Ben Malcolmson, head of investor relations for Trinity Capital and former walk-on receiver for the University of Southern California (USC) football team. Speaking to students at the Colangelo College of Business at Grand Canyon University (GCU), Malcolmson connected his athletic experiences with business principles, demonstrating that qualities like grit extend beyond the playing field.
The Essence of Grit
Malcolmson kicked off his talk by emphasizing the vital role of grit in all life’s endeavors—sports, academics, and even spiritual journeys. “If you’re an athlete, you understand grit is really important,” he asserted. “But it also applies to life. It applies to school. It applies to everything you’re involved in.” This assertion set the tone for an afternoon of exploring how the concept of determination can bridge disparate worlds.
Malcolmson’s firsthand experiences—transitioning from a student reporter to an NFL chief of staff—underscore a unique journey marked by resilience. He learned critical lessons from those he admired, especially from Pete Carroll, the former head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. Malcolmson noted that grit was the primary takeaway from his time with Carroll, emphasizing its pivotal role in success.
The Science Behind Grit
A poignant aspect of Malcolmson’s talk was his reference to Dr. Angela Duckworth, author of Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Citing her extensive research, he highlighted that grit proved more predictive of success than factors like social intelligence, appearance, or IQ. Duckworth’s studies featured diverse groups, from military cadets to national spelling bee participants, finding a consistent theme—that grit was the key differentiator in achieving greatness.
Malcolmson shared that Duckworth even devoted a chapter of her book to Carroll, focusing on his capacity to cultivate a “culture of grit” within the Seahawks. This chapter emerged from her initial skepticism about whether grit could be enhanced, a belief that shifted after her conversations with Carroll. In turn, Malcolmson highlighted practical methods to develop grit in our lives.
Five Ways to Cultivate Grit
-
Deliver at Practice: Whether in sports or music, consistent practice builds resilience. Malcolmson emphasized that practicing increases confidence, fortifying your ability to complete tasks.
-
Delay Gratification: Success requires the discipline to resist immediate rewards. “Increase your self-control,” he stated, drawing an analogy to pushing through challenges, much like an athlete training on a treadmill.
-
Choose to Persevere: Grit is a choice that must be made repeatedly. “It’s something you have to choose every single time,” Malcolmson reminded the audience.
-
Surround Yourself with Gritty Individuals: “Grit is contagious,” he said, encouraging students to connect with those who exhibit determination. Reflections on networking highlighted the importance of peer influence.
- Self-Awareness: Duckworth suggested regularly assessing your grit levels and tracking improvements over time. Malcolmson recommended self-reflection as a means to enhance personal growth.
The Transitional Nature of Grit
Malcolmson’s insights resonated deeply with students. Junior finance major Bryson Conrad shared his initial doubt about applying sports grit to business but found the connections illuminating. He reflected on the idea that grit can manifest not just in physical challenges but in tackling tough interpersonal dynamics and grueling work hours with positivity and determination.
Moreover, Malcolmson underscored his role at Trinity Capital as more than just a career position. He sees himself as an ambassador, bridging communication between the company and its stakeholders. “I love the diversity of things happening every day,” he commented, revealing how his unique skill set aligns with fostering grit in others.
Building Relationships in Business
Malcolmson highlighted the importance of building rapport through genuine connections, emphasizing a keen listening approach by asking more questions than providing answers. “When you ask questions, you build a relationship,” he noted, reinforcing that long-lasting connections often prove more valuable than mere transactional interactions.
His journey wasn’t just professional; it also involved personal growth. During his brief time with USC football, he sought to intertwine his faith with his athletic life, prompting him to organize prayer meetings and distribute Bibles. Though met with initial resistance, the impact of his efforts blossomed in unexpected ways later on.
Reflections on Purpose and Integration
Malcolmson’s experiences illustrate a profound understanding of integrating faith with vocation. He articulated a belief that God engages in business, expressing that integrating one’s spiritual life with career pursuits adds furor and direction.
“God wants to bless all that you do,” he asserted. Whether working in a competitive corporate environment or amidst personal challenges, individuals are encouraged to live out their values through love and care, and ultimately, this fosters a meaningful existence.
In essence, Ben Malcolmson’s talk was a celebration of grit—not just in sports, but in life, business, and spirituality. His pragmatic advice offers a structured pathway for those eager to find their own versions of grit in a world that demands resilience at every turn.
