Grit has long been praised as the key to success, but willpower alone is not enough. Angela Duckworth’s recent research introduces situational agency—the ability to design environments that make desired behaviors easier and distractions harder. For school leaders reflecting midyear or setting intentions for 2026, combining grit with situational agency offers a more sustainable path to focus, presence, and progress.

Dr. Cindy Petersen reflects on Lyle Kirtman’s Shaping the Future and his four leadership pivots for lasting educational impact. She explores how schools can define a clear North Star, strengthen talent management, foster intrinsic accountability, and set high expectations. With insights on building a positive results culture, her reflections invite leaders to consider how collaboration, empowerment, and shared ownership can transform education.