logo

51 pages 1 hour read

Adam Grant

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2023

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Important Quotes

Quotation Mark Icon

“Everyone has hidden potential. This book is about how we unlock it.”


(Prologue, Page 5)

Grant sets the foundational premise for Hidden Potential by emphasizing that everyone possesses untapped abilities. This statement introduces the central theme of the book, focusing on discovering and nurturing latent talents, which challenges the common belief that greatness is an innate trait rather than a developed skill.

Quotation Mark Icon

“Potential is not a matter of where you start, but of how far you travel. We need to focus less on starting points and more on distance traveled.”


(Prologue, Page 7)

Grant redefines potential by focusing on progress rather than innate abilities. This perspective encourages readers to value personal growth and perseverance, reinforcing the book’s message that dedication and continuous effort can lead to significant achievements.

Quotation Mark Icon

“They’re not born with invisible superpowers; most of their gifts are homegrown or homemade. People who make major strides are rarely freaks of nature. They’re usually freaks of nurture.”


(Prologue, Page 7)

Grant challenges the myth of natural-born geniuses by emphasizing the role of nurture in developing exceptional skills. This quote encapsulates the book’s argument that environmental factors, mentorship, and hard work are critical in achieving greatness, thereby democratizing the concept of success.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock IconUnlock all 51 pages of this Study Guide
Plus, gain access to 8,600+ more expert-written Study Guides.
Including features:
+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools