Book Summary: Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of Think Again reveals how we can elevate ourselves and others to new heights.

In a world that glorifies talent, we often focus on individuals who start with natural advantages—whether it’s gifted students, star athletes, or musical prodigies. However, by fixating on innate abilities, we overlook how far we can progress ourselves. We tend to underestimate the skills we can learn and how much we can improve.

In reality, we all can get better at getting better. And when opportunity doesn’t present itself, there are ways to create it.

Hidden Potential introduces a fresh perspective on how to raise our aspirations and surpass expectations. Adam Grant combines cutting-edge research, surprising insights, and engaging stories that take readers from classrooms to boardrooms, playgrounds to the Olympics, and even from the underground to outer space.

He demonstrates that progress depends not just on hard work, but on how effectively we learn. Success is less about innate genius and more about developing character. Grant delves into the strategies for building the traits and motivation needed to unlock potential and designing systems that open doors for those often overlooked.

While many books focus on the habits of top performers, this one shows how anyone can achieve greater success. The true measure of potential lies not in how high you’ve climbed, but in the distance you’ve traveled.

Part I: Skills of Character

The sources identify character skills as essential for unlocking hidden potential. These skills are not innate traits, but rather qualities that can be cultivated through effort and practice. The first section focuses on three specific character skills: embracing discomfort, becoming a sponge, and accepting imperfections.

• Chapter 1: Creatures of DiscomfortThe sources use the example of polyglot Sara Maria Hasbun to illustrate the importance of embracing discomfort in the learning process. Hasbun, who learned nine languages after the age of 21, actively sought out situations that pushed her outside of her comfort zone, such as giving her wedding toast in Cantonese. The chapter emphasizes that discomfort is often a sign of progress and that actively seeking it out can accelerate learning. The chapter explores different ways to embrace discomfort, such as:
  • Trying a new style instead of sticking to what is familiar and comfortable. For example, comedian Steve Martin deliberately adopted an awkward stage persona early in his career, using discomfort as a tool to refine his comedic timing and delivery.
  • Biting your tongue: Engaging in thoughtful disagreement by actively listening to perspectives that challenge your own, rather than immediately voicing your own opinions or engaging in unproductive arguments.
  • Making more mistakes: Viewing errors as opportunities for growth, rather than setbacks.
• Chapter 2: Human SpongesThis chapter centers on the importance of becoming a “sponge,” which means actively seeking out and absorbing information from diverse and credible sources. The chapter emphasizes the quality of information over quantity, arguing that growth stems from learning effectively rather than simply working hard. Businesswoman Mellody Hobson exemplifies the sponge-like approach, drawing on her lifelong love of learning to achieve success in a field far removed from her challenging upbringing.
  Hobson’s story, along with historical examples like the Protestant Reformation, highlights the transformative power of literacy. The chapter argues that becoming a sponge is not only about personal growth but also about using that knowledge to help others.
• Chapter 3: The ImperfectionistsThis chapter emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence rather than perfection, recognizing that imperfections can be valuable sources of creativity and innovation. This concept is exemplified by self-taught architect Tadao Ando, who embraced the limitations of his unconventional path to create unique and celebrated designs. The chapter introduces the concept of a “minimum lovable product,” arguing that seeking feedback and prioritizing the most impactful improvements can be more effective than aiming for flawlessness. Choreographer Twyla Tharp’s experience refining her musical Movin’ Out illustrates how identifying and addressing the most critical flaws led to a successful Broadway run.

Part II: Structures for Motivation

Even with strong character skills, sustaining motivation over time can be challenging. This section explores strategies for building structures that support motivation in the face of obstacles.

• Chapter 4: Transforming the Daily GrindThe chapter argues that finding joy in the process of work is essential for sustaining motivation over the long term. Instead of viewing practice solely as a means to an end, the sources suggest incorporating elements of play to make the process more engaging and enjoyable. The chapter also cautions against the dangers of burnout, emphasizing the importance of rest and recovery.
• Chapter 5: Getting UnstuckDrawing on the experience of baseball pitcher R. A. Dickey, who resurrected his career by mastering the notoriously difficult knuckleball, the chapter provides a roadmap for navigating periods of stagnation and uncertainty. It emphasizes the value of seeking guidance from multiple mentors, recognizing that different perspectives can illuminate paths that might not be immediately apparent. The chapter also highlights the importance of:
  • Embracing detours: Sometimes, stepping away from a primary pursuit and engaging in a side project can provide renewed energy and inspiration.
  • Recognizing the power of small wins: Even seemingly insignificant steps forward can contribute to a sense of progress and momentum.
• Chapter 6: Defying GravityThis chapter emphasizes the power of bootstrapping—the ability to achieve success through one’s efforts and determination. It challenges the idea that bootstrapping must be a solitary endeavor, highlighting the importance of social support and collaboration. The chapter draws on the experiences of the Golden Thirteen, the first Black officer candidates in the U.S. Navy, who overcame prejudice and a demanding curriculum to succeed through mutual support and shared learning.

Part III: Systems of Opportunity

This section shifts focus from individual efforts to the broader systems that can either support or hinder the development of hidden potential.

• Chapter 7: Every Child Gets AheadFocusing on the Finnish education system, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, the chapter explores how schools can be designed to nurture the potential of every student. Key elements of the Finnish approach include:
  • A culture of equality and collaboration: Emphasizing the belief that every child has the potential to succeed.
  • High-quality teachers: Attracting and retaining skilled educators through competitive compensation and a focus on professional development.
  • Individualized support: Providing targeted assistance to students who need it, rather than relying solely on standardized tests or grade retention.
  • A love of learning: Creating a joyful and engaging learning environment that encourages exploration and curiosity.
• Chapter 8: Mining for GoldThis chapter highlights the importance of collective intelligence—the ability of a group to outperform even its most intelligent individual members when working together effectively. The chapter uses the example of the successful 2010 Chilean miner rescue to illustrate how a shared sense of purpose, open communication, and a willingness to consider diverse perspectives can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
• Chapter 9: Diamonds in the RoughThis chapter examines how traditional hiring systems and college admissions processes often overlook hidden potential, relying too heavily on easily quantifiable metrics like GPAs and standardized test scores. It proposes alternative approaches that focus on:
  • Identifying potential over pedigree: Seeking candidates who have demonstrated the ability to learn and adapt, regardless of their background or formal credentials.
  • Evaluating trajectories over snapshots: Considering a candidate’s growth and progress over time, rather than focusing solely on a single point in time.
  • Creating more equitable systems: Recognizing and addressing the systemic barriers that prevent individuals from marginalized groups from reaching their full potential.