Situated

Angela Duckworth, whose first book described grit as a blend of passion and perseverance, argues here that grit is necessary but sometimes not sufficient: how people situate themselves to meet a challenge can be crucial. Her research points to the influence of the objects within arm's reach, of peers and mentors, and even of a zip code, and she contends it is far better to improve a situation first than to make the best of it. She sets out four essential elements of successful situations, with examples of how high performers such as Taylor Swift, Michael Phelps and Jerry Seinfeld set up conditions that make excelling easier. Duckworth also writes about her own burnout and struggles in her marriage.

Adam Grant included it in The 12 New Books to Spice Up Your Fall, describing it as an absorbing case that willpower is overrated, with advice on reshaping one's circumstances.