Originals; How Non-Conformists Move the World

“Packed with fresh perspectives on a wide range of topics that impact both our personal and professional lives.” — The New York Times DealBook

“Originals is one of the most important and compelling books I’ve ever read, filled with surprising and impactful ideas. It will not only change how you see the world, but it may also change how you live your life. And it could very well inspire you to change the world around you.” — Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook and author of Lean In

In Give and Take, Adam Grant introduced a revolutionary new approach to success, cementing his place as one of his generation’s most influential thought leaders. In Originals, he takes a fresh approach to improving the world by exploring how we can cultivate originality—championing new ideas and values that challenge the norm, fight conformity, and break free from outdated traditions. How do we introduce groundbreaking ideas and practices without putting everything at risk?

Through compelling studies and stories from business, politics, sports, and entertainment, Grant examines how to spot a good idea, speak up without being silenced, rally support, choose the right moment to act, and overcome fear and doubt. He also explores how parents and teachers can foster creativity in children, and how leaders can create environments that encourage dissent. Along the way, we learn from entrepreneurs who pitch startups by outlining reasons not to invest, a woman at Apple who questioned Steve Jobs from below, an analyst who broke CIA secrecy, a billionaire who fires employees who fail to criticize him, and a TV executive who saved Seinfeld despite having no background in comedy.

The result is a collection of groundbreaking insights into rejecting conformity and reshaping the status quo.