Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Dan’s Biz Bookshelf: 'Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things'

Shout out to Adam Grant’s books. Everything he writes is spot-on, and I recommend them all.  But this latest one will slap you upside the head—not with fluff or hype, but with truth. If you’re a leader, builder, mentor, or just someone trying to push yourself to be better, Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things is a masterclass in unlocking what’s inside of you.

It’s written with Grant’s signature blend of academic rigor, real-world stories, and plain wisdom. He argues that talent is overrated. What matters more is progress. It’s not where you start, but how far you’re willing to go.

He opens the book with this zinger: “The true measure of potential is not how fast you climb, but how far you travel.” It should be printed and stapled above every school desk and office cubicle in the country.

Throughout the book, Grant shows how overlooked traits like perseverance, curiosity, and the ability to take feedback are better predictors of success than raw intelligence or early wins. He dismantles the myth of the prodigy and instead elevates the person who grows steadily, makes mistakes, and keeps going.

A favorite example is the story of NBA star Jimmy Butler, who was “cut, doubted, and discarded” at almost every level but kept grinding, proving that greatness isn’t about where you start; it’s what you do with the struggle.

Another gem is Grant's examination of the power of “scaffolding”—building structures that support growth. For example, an excellent teacher who sees more in a student than the student sees in themselves, or a manager who gives a second chance instead of a pink slip. Grant writes: “We don’t need to believe in people’s greatness. We need to help them build it.” 

Hidden Potential is both inspiring and practical. It provides a playbook for becoming better, leading better, and helping others rise with you. If you care about growth—for yourself, your team, or your kids—read this book. Then, read it again. Because your ceiling isn’t fixed; it’s simply waiting to be raised.

Dan Beaulieu is president of D.B. Management Group.

Title: Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
Author: Adam Grant
Copyright: 2023 Viking 
Pages: 304
Price: $16.71