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  • Big Potential

  • How Transforming the Pursuit of Success Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being
  • Written by: Shawn Achor
  • Narrated by: Shawn Achor
  • Length: 6 hrs and 35 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (87 ratings)

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Big Potential

Written by: Shawn Achor
Narrated by: Shawn Achor
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Publisher's Summary

“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

What the critics say

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

What listeners say about Big Potential

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  • Overall
    1 out of 5 stars

Only for companies

Only taking about how to be a team player not only having a high IQ

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Shawn is inspiring, motivating and engaging.

Shawn and his research team share brilliant, practical insight that help individuals reach their full potential. Their skills can help individuals in their professional and personal life.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

read this to take your life to the next level

i absolutely loved this book! exactly what I needed to read to make more of an intentional effort towards a richer mindset

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Purely transformative!

An excellent read for someone looking to make big changes. I will be sharing with Friends for sure.

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