Creativity

Originals: 6 key ideas

by Adam Grant

The core ideas of Originals, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 6

   Originals procrastinate strategically

   Delaying a task a little lets ideas incubate.

   Quick starters and slow finishers often produce the most creative work.

2. IDEA 2 OF 6

   Quantity drives quality

   The best way to get a great idea is to have many.

   Most famous creators also produced lots of forgettable work.

3. IDEA 3 OF 6

   Risk balance

   Many originals keep a safe base, like a day job, while taking a bold risk elsewhere.

4. IDEA 4 OF 6

   Speak up wisely

   Lead with weaknesses of your idea; it disarms critics and builds trust.

5. IDEA 5 OF 6

   First mover isn't always best

   Settlers who improve on pioneers often win the market.

6. IDEA 6 OF 6

   Raise rebels well

   Explain the reasons behind rules and praise character to encourage original thinking in others.