Originals
"Originals" by Adam Grant is a captivating exploration of what it takes to challenge the status quo and foster creativity and innovation. In this review, we'll dissect the key concepts of the book, accompanied by compelling examples and practical strategies to unleash your inner originality.
Rethinking Conventional Wisdom:
Grant challenges conventional wisdom by showcasing individuals who defied norms and reshaped industries through their original ideas.
Example:
The story of J.K. Rowling, rejected by multiple publishers before her groundbreaking Harry Potter series became a global phenomenon, illustrates the power of originality in defying conventional expectations.
Embracing Procrastination and Doubt:
Contrary to popular belief, Grant argues that procrastination and doubt can be catalysts for creativity, leading to more thoughtful and innovative solutions.
Example:
Leonardo da Vinci's tendency to procrastinate and revisit his works multiple times resulted in masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, demonstrating the value of embracing doubt and delaying decisions.
Nurturing Originality in Organizations:
Grant explores how organizations can foster a culture of originality by encouraging dissent and diversity of thought.
Example:
Google's "20% time" policy, allowing employees to dedicate a portion of their workweek to pursuing personal projects, has led to innovations like Gmail and Google News, highlighting the importance of fostering creativity in the workplace.
Overcoming Fear of Failure:
Originals are not immune to failure, but they embrace it as a necessary step toward success and growth.
Example:
The story of Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, who faced numerous rejections and setbacks before her revolutionary shapewear became a billion-dollar business, underscores the resilience and perseverance required to overcome failure.
Championing Unconventional Ideas:
Grant encourages readers to champion unconventional ideas and challenge the status quo, even in the face of resistance.
Example:
Elon Musk's audacious vision of colonizing Mars, initially met with skepticism and ridicule, has inspired a new era of space exploration, demonstrating the impact of daring to pursue unconventional ideas.
"Originals" is a thought-provoking manifesto that celebrates the power of original thinking and encourages readers to challenge the norm, embrace doubt, and unleash their creative potential. By learning from the stories and strategies shared in the book, individuals and organizations can foster a culture of innovation and drive positive change in the world.
