Book Review- Originals by Adam Grant

 

The most difficult thing for anyone in this world, while trying to be original, is being accepted by others enough for them to truly listen to the thought or understand the unique actions. On the other hand, being original itself requires so much risk-taking, inviting undue comments, and being ready to face criticism. There are silent days of annoyance, with no certainty of success and Plan B dying at the beginning stage.

This book, titled “Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World” by Adam Grant, explores many of these pain points faced by originals. It argues that originality is a necessary trait, especially in this era, and addresses the challenge of improving the world by becoming original by championing novel ideas.

I have long admired Adam Grant’s writing. His first book, Give and Take, was every bit as hopeful as this one—optimism wrapped in a layer of practicality.

Drawing on studies and stories from business, politics, sports, and entertainment, Grant shows how to recognize good ideas, speak up without being silenced, build allies, act at the right time, and manage fear and doubt. He also explores how parents, teachers, and leaders can nurture originality and create cultures that welcome dissent. Through compelling examples—from bold entrepreneurs to unconventional executives—the book offers powerful insights into rejecting conformity and improving the status quo.

He presented his case by countering the myths surrounding originality. For example-

1. The myth is that first movers always win, but Grant shows that later entrants often take fewer risks and earn better returns than early pioneers.

2. The myth is that genius belongs to the young, but Grant shows that age often brings the insight and experience that lead to meaningful results.

3. The myth is that procrastination leads to failure, but Grant shows that waiting can sometimes foster deeper thinking and more creative results.

4. The myth is that firstborns hold the advantage, but Grant shows that later-born children often become bolder risk-takers and succeed in different ways.

At the end of the book, Grant includes an entire section titled “Actions for Impact,” where he goes the extra mile by offering practical applications. It is divided into three areas:

1. Actions for individuals to generate, recognize, voice, and champion new ideas

2. Actions for leaders to encourage novel thinking and build cultures that welcome dissent

3. Recommendations for parents and teachers to help children feel comfortable taking a creative or moral stand against the status quo

I would recommend this book to almost everyone. Whether you already see yourself as an original thinker or are only beginning to question the status quo, this book offers something valuable. More than just a collection of ideas, Originals is a practical and encouraging reminder that meaningful change often begins with the courage to think differently.

Quotes from the book-

“Argue like you’re right and listen like you’re wrong.”

“Being original doesn’t require being first. It just means being different and better.”

“Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.”

“The least favorite students were the non-conformists who made up their own rules. Teachers tend to discriminate against highly creative students, labeling them as troublemakers.”

“Consider the four responses to dissatisfaction: exit, voice, persistence, and neglect. Only exit and voice improve your circumstances.”