Unlocking Big Potential: Why Your Success Depends On Others (And How To Make It Work For You!)

For generations, we’ve been told that success is a solo game. The lone genius, the self-made millionaire, the top student—these are the stories we’re raised on. But what if everything you believed about achievement was only half the truth? What if your greatest potential could only be realized in connection with others? Welcome to the world of Big Potential, where success is not a zero-sum game, but a team sport—and the rewards are exponentially greater when we lift each other up.

Shawn Achor, a leading voice in positive psychology, spent years researching what truly drives achievement and happiness. His findings are as surprising as they are inspiring: our individual potential is capped by the strength of our ecosystem. In other words, you can be a superstar, but only if you’re not trying to be one alone. The real secret to lasting success lies in the quality of our connections, the diversity of our networks, and our willingness to celebrate and elevate those around us.

Consider the fireflies of Southeast Asia, who synchronize their flashes to create a breathtaking show of unity. Alone, a firefly’s chances of attracting a mate are slim. Together, their success rate skyrockets. Humans are no different. Research cited by Achor shows that when we foster positive, supportive relationships, our happiness, creativity, and productivity multiply—not just for ourselves, but for everyone in our orbit. This is the contagious power of social connection: happiness spreads, support amplifies, and collective achievement becomes possible.

But the book goes further, challenging us to rethink the very definition of potential. It’s not just about what you can do, but about what you help others do. Teams that celebrate every member, workplaces that democratize praise, and communities that empower everyone to lead from their seat consistently outperform those that reward only the few. The data is clear: social connection is a stronger predictor of long-term success than test scores, IQ, or even hard work 1 3 .

This isn’t just theory. From hospitals where receptionists save lives by encouraging screenings, to classrooms where students start gratitude clubs, the ripple effects of empowerment and recognition are profound. When people feel seen and valued, they invest more, innovate more, and bounce back faster from setbacks. Even small acts of praise—when shared widely—can ignite a virtuous cycle of motivation and achievement.

Of course, no system is immune to negativity. Toxic influences, gossip, and relentless bad news can sap energy and undermine trust. That’s why Achor emphasizes the importance of defending your ecosystem: set boundaries around negative media, practice daily gratitude rituals, and create psychological safety where everyone feels free to share and take risks. These simple habits can reduce depression, boost resilience, and ensure that your positive cycles endure, even in tough times.

So, if you’re ready to unlock your Big Potential, start by asking: Who are you lifting up today? How can you expand your constellation of support? And what can you do to make sure that praise, gratitude, and optimism flow freely in your world? Because in the end, your greatest achievements will not be measured by what you accomplish alone, but by what you help others achieve with you.

Ready to learn the five strategies for multiplying your potential and building a thriving network? Keep reading for actionable tips, inspiring stories, and a roadmap to success that leaves no one behind.