The text excerpts from Adam Grant's Hidden Potential explore the concept of potential and how it is often underestimated or misjudged. Grant argues that focusing solely on starting points, such as innate talent or initial performance, can obscure the true measure of potential, which lies in the distance traveled. He emphasizes the importance of character skills, such as proactivity, determination, and prosocial behavior, which are crucial for achieving greater things. Grant then examines the myth of learning styles and advocates for embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth and learning. He suggests strategies for overcoming perfectionism and cultivating a growth mindset. Grant also highlights the power of scaffolding, coaching, and collaboration in unleashing hidden potential. Finally, he explores how to create systems that recognize and nurture potential in diverse individuals, examining examples from education, business, and the military.