Big Potential: How Transforming the Pursuit of Success Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being, by Shawn Achor
In Big Potential, Shawn Achor challenges the idea that success is a solo pursuit. Unlike what we often learn in school or at work, where everything is centered around personal performance, Achor shows that our true potential is only revealed when we connect with others. Drawing on years of research in positive psychology, he mix stories, data, and insights to offer a more collective and fulfilling path toward achievement, happiness, and well-being.
One of the most powerful images in the book is that of fireflies in Southeast Asia. Alone, they flash at random. But when they gather, they light up in perfect harmony, creating a beautiful, synchronized glow. Achor uses this metaphor to show how much more we can shine when we join forces with others. He even plays with the famous Star Wars line “May the force be with you” and recalls that originally it was drafted by George Lucas as “May the force of others be with you.” His point is clear: when we include and amplify the power of those around us, our success becomes limitless.
The concept of leadership exists everywhere, not just in titles or positions of power a good recall to me. Through what he calls the "1/3 Rule," he explains that in any group, about a third of people are natural positive influencers. In this view, success is no longer about standing out alone but about lifting others and creating shared wins.
Another important idea in the book is that compliments and recognition are renewable resources. We don’t run out of them by giving them away. In fact, the more we share praise and gratitude, the more energy and motivation we generate. Being kind, expressing appreciation, and celebrating others improves both our well-being and our performance. Achor makes it clear that positivity is not soft or naïve, it’s strategic.
He also highlights the power of visualization. When we take the time to mentally picture our success, while also preparing for the challenges we might face along the way, we train our brain to act. Visualization helps us build emotional readiness and resilience. It’s not about fantasy or magical thinking. It’s about building a mental map that leads us toward the goals we want to achieve.
Conclusion
In the end, Big Potential leaves a clear and powerful message: we can only unlock our full potential when we recognize that we depend on others. Without cooperation and collaboration, we may achieve some things, but they will be small. Only when we raise others do we truly raise ourselves. Big goals require big teams. Anything less, and we’re only tapping into a fraction of what’s possible.
João Pedro Paro
Global Director of Governance, Risk & Compliance | PhD Candidate | Internationally Qualified Attorney
