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1 min read Reviews

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World — Adam Grant (Review)

Adam Grant’s Originals explains how non-conformists develop and champion ideas that challenge the status quo — and how innovation thrives with curiosity and thoughtful risk-taking.
Book cover of Originals by Adam Grant — innovation, creativity, and challenging the status quo.

Summary

In Originals, organizational psychologist Adam Grant explores how individuals champion new ideas and challenge the status quo. Through research and stories from business, politics, and entertainment, Grant shows that originality isn’t about innate genius — but about curiosity, persistence, thoughtful risk-taking, and timing. The book offers practical strategies for generating ideas, speaking up effectively, and fostering cultures that welcome innovation.

Who This Book Is For

  • Leaders and professionals seeking to promote innovation
  • Creative thinkers navigating risk, hesitation, or resistance
  • Readers who enjoy research-based personal development
  • Teams and managers wanting to encourage diverse ideas

Key Takeaways

  • Originals hesitate too: Many innovators are cautious thinkers who test ideas gradually.
  • Timing matters: Early timing can hurt adoption; strategic delay often leads to stronger ideas.
  • Championing ideas: Effective advocacy requires tailoring arguments to an audience’s values.
  • Healthy dissent: Disagreement, when supported by psychological safety, sparks stronger solutions.
  • Functional procrastination: Pausing before committing can encourage creativity and refinement.

Strengths

  • Engaging blend of research and storytelling.
  • Offers practical strategies applicable to workplaces and individual creative pursuits.
  • Encourages thoughtful, evidence-based approaches to innovation.

Weaknesses

  • Some case studies feel anecdotal rather than deeply analytical.
  • Coverage of creativity can feel broad rather than comprehensive.
  • Emphasis on organizational life may feel less relevant to solo creators.

Verdict

A compelling and research-supported guide to bringing new ideas into the world. Originals blends psychology, leadership, and creativity to show how anyone — not just visionaries — can challenge convention and spark meaningful change.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Where to Get It

Buy on Amazon (see disclosure)

Published by:

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