I think the only way we teach our students is by being a great example of the things we want them to be. If we go 115% they’ll go 80 (on average). If we go 150% they might get to 95. The most successful directors are crazy organized and dedicate their lives to being way more than what is expected because then their students feed off of that and get more grit, confidence, initiative. They learn by doing. If you expect them to do things and exude the confidence in them and positively encourage them they will improve. Find stuff that they can’t do and start showing and teaching the skills necessary to do that. But, also have music in their hands that shows off the things they do perfectly. Perform the gritty stuff on the spring concert and maybe in the stands. Good luck to you!