In a riveting conversation, organizational psychologist Adam Grant delves into the concept of hidden potential, exploring how it can be unlocked and harnessed for greater success.
He challenges conventional wisdom on talent, success, and the role of confidence, offering fresh perspectives and actionable insights.
Redefining Success and Potential
Success is not exclusive to those with natural talent or early advantages.
It can be attained by anyone with the right mindset, motivation, and support.
The bias towards natural talent often leads to an underestimation of personal potential.
Seeking feedback from knowledgeable people can provide an objective perspective on one’s potential.
The Three Character Skills
Being a sponge (eager to learn), an imperfectionist (embracing flaws and failures), and a discomfort seeker (willing to take on challenges) are essential character skills for growth.
Data shows that being a sponge is a common strength, while being an imperfectionist is less common.
Embracing Discomfort in Tech
In the tech industry, discomfort seeking might be the biggest challenge.
Professionals often avoid situations where they might not be competent, thus limiting their growth.
Setting goals to launch projects that might fail can help embrace discomfort and accept imperfection.
Inspiration Behind ‘Hidden Potential’
Frustration from seeing potential go to waste led to the creation of ‘Hidden Potential’.
Many people with extraordinary capabilities felt underqualified or overlooked, which the book aims to address.
