Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

Grant discusses the importance of “scaffolding” to overcome obstacles and boost resilience. He explains that roadblocks are inevitable on the path to any goal, often leading to burnout, discouragement, and doubt. Scaffolding serves as a temporary support structure, helping individuals navigate these challenges and grow. Grant notes studies on playing Tetris after watching distressing videos. This unexpected form of scaffolding reduces intrusive flashbacks by engaging the brain’s visual-spatial circuits, preventing the consolidation of disturbing imagery.

Scaffolding is effective because it usually comes from others, such as mentors or peers; it is tailored to specific challenges; it is applied at pivotal moments; and it is temporary, providing support only when needed. Grant emphasizes that scaffolding can come from various sources and is essential for transforming difficulties into strengths, enabling growth and motivation in the face of adversity.

Grant explores how infusing passion into practice transforms the daily grind into a joyful process, enhancing skill development and performance. He uses the story of Evelyn Glennie, a profoundly deaf percussionist, to illustrate how passion and innovative learning methods can overcome significant challenges. Despite her growing hearing loss, Evelyn learned to feel music through vibrations with the help of her percussion teacher, Ron.