Big Potential

How Transforming the Pursuit of Success Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being

By: Shawn Achor

Narrated by: Shawn Achor

“With cutting-edge research, penetrating insights, and practical examples, Shawn Achor describes a new conception of ‘success,’ and in doing so, reveals exciting new strategies we can use to meet our highest potential.”—Gretchen Rubin, bestselling author of The Happiness Project

“A vibrant book on how to bring out the best in others—and how they can bring out the best in us.”—Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Think Again and host of the podcast WorkLife

In a world that thrives on competition and individual achievement, we’re measuring and pursuing potential incorrectly. Pursuing success in isolation—pushing others away as we push ourselves too hard—not only limits our potential but makes us more stressed and disconnected than ever.

Harvard-trained researcher Shawn Achor reveals a better approach. With exciting new research combining neuroscience and psychology with Big Data, Achor shows that our potential is not limited by what we alone can achieve. Instead, it is determined by how we complement, contribute to, and benefit from the abilities and achievements of people around us.

When we—as individuals, leaders, and parents—chase only individual achievement, we leave vast sources of potential untapped. But once we put “others” back into the equation, and work to make others better, we ignite a Virtuous Cycle of cascading successes that amplify our own.

The dramatic shifts in how we approach work today demand an equally dramatic shift in our approach to success. In Big Potential, Achor draws on cutting-edge original research as well as his work with nearly half of the Fortune 100 and with places like NASA, the NFL and the NBA, and offers a new path to thriving in the modern world.

©2018 Shawn Achor (P)2018 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Big Potential turns our notions of success upside down. It shows that the secret to achievement isn’t to focus on one’s self but to lift up the lives of others. Then it outlines the practical, actionable steps to turn these ideas into action. This book is another reminder of the inspiring power of Shawn Achor.”—Daniel H. Pink, New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Regret

“With enticing stories, fresh studies, contagious enthusiasm, and immensely practical tips, this is Shawn Achor at his best.”—Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Think Again and host of the podcast WorkLife

“With cutting-edge research, penetrating insights, and practical examples, Achor describes a new conception of ‘success’ and, in doing so, reveals exciting new strategies we can use to meet our highest potential. If you aim to live up to the possibilities of your life, you’ll find Big Potential to be a key resource.”—Gretchen Rubin, bestselling author of The Happiness Project

Good book. Not the best reading voice.

I liked this book. I've listened to it twice. The narration isn't the best. I felt like I was being read to and his voice isn't the best for that. These authors should work more on reading conversationally. Maybe invest in some public speaking skills. It would help them convey the information in a way that people will absorb it better.

5 stars

Great Book! Inspiring book on how to lead others effectively! Shawn Achor's Big Potential is a must!

Stronger together

I really love when the author reads the book, makes the projection of the meaning so much clearer. Shawn does a great job of explaining his points with stories and life experiences. I always appreciate when researchers in this realm give each other credit and mention how their research supports one another. Big Potential can not be achieved alone.

Great attitude adjustment

I first encountered Shawn giving his first TED talk. His book is just as engaging, relatable, and insightful as that first talk.

This book changed the way I view success, celebration and habit building. A great book to listen to, but to get the most out of it, I recommend stopping periodically and taking notes.

Thanks Shawn

Worth Listening.

This book will change how you think and act. Loved hearing his thoughts and perspectives.

so good, I want to immediately relisten.

there are many nuggets of real life application--so many that I will be buying the hard version and taking notes. I loved every minute.

A great read for leaders

Teaching leaders about the power of positive influence. This book is powerful regardless of the industry you are in.

loved it

his story telling allows me to see new perspective and I enjoy his humor.

Outstanding

Enjoyed it greatly. Helpful advice to focus on what’s truly important. Enjoyed it more than his first book

Loved it!

Such life changing stuff in here. I feel like this book should be required for any human that has contact with the general public.
I loved how the stories backed up research. I would have given all 5 stars be he goes so dang fast at some points I missed what he was saying. I did enjoy it overall though.