Uncovering the greatness in our midst
The author helps open our eyes to the potential in others that too often goes unnoticed.
Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
By Adam Grant
Grade: 99
This is, without a doubt, the best book I’ve read this year. (Misbehaving: The Making of Behavioral Economics is a close second.) As an avid reader and a fan of Adam Grant's work, Hidden Potential met—and then exceeded—my expectations. Grant's ability to blend captivating storytelling, deep research, and practical wisdom is awe-inspiring.
The result: This book takes readers on a transformative journey towards unlocking their hidden potential and unleashing their inner greatness. Grant's expertise in psychology (which, alongside behavioral economics, is my favorite topic of study) shines through as he explores the intricacies of human potential.
My favorite part of Hidden Potential is when Grant emphasizes authenticity. He reminds readers that true potential lies in aligning our work with our core values and passions. Through inspiring stories of individuals who have harnessed their unique abilities to make a difference, he shows us the power of embracing our true selves. This message resonates deeply, urging readers to reflect on their own aspirations and find the courage to pursue meaningful work.
Why I enjoyed the book
It’s not an exaggeration to say that I read everything Grant shares online. He’s been one of my two favorite writers and thinkers for decade, when he wrote Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success in 2013. Hidden Potential, however, is different, in large part because it’s the most personal of his books.
For example, he shares examples of how being a perfectionist and having imposter syndrome plagued him early in life. He also shares poignant examples of how people are easily looked over or doubted for not being fast learners or for not appearing to have what it takes by some subjective measure of performance, be it in school or in the workplace. (Speaking of school: His research on the importance of having the same teacher for multiple years will astound you.)
What made my jaw drop
By far, the most fascinating aspects of the book are the variety of examples Grant uses to illustrate his points. He takes us from the classroom to the boardroom, the playground to the Olympics, and underground to outer space.
Some specific examples of how people discovered their hidden potential:
José Hernandez, a Hispanic-American who grew up in a migrant farmer family, became an astronaut after being rejected by NASA 11 times.
Steph Curry, an NBA star, overcame his physical limitations (e.g., slow, unathletic, etc.) to become one of the greatest shooters ever.
J.K. Rowling, the author of Harry Potter, used her grit to persevere through her depression, divorce, and poverty, becoming one of the most influential and successful writers of her generation.
He also introduces us to mind-blowing research:
Having an experienced kindergarten teacher adds an average of over $1,000 to a student’s annual income in their 20s.
NBA teams got worse after their star players were injured. But once the player returned, their team did even better than before the injury.
The Chilean miners trapped underground for 69 days survived by learning new skills and working together.
Hidden Potential is a book that will inspire you to rethink your own potential and help others realize theirs. It will challenge you to question your assumptions, embrace your flaws, and pursue your passions. It will teach you how to learn better, work smarter, and live happier. It is—I believe—a book that will change your life.