Adversity refers to the difficulties or misfortunes individuals face, particularly with the connotation that these can be, or have been, overcome. In Hidden Potential, Adam Grant emphasizes how overcoming adversity can reveal a person’s true potential. The book highlights stories of individuals who have surmounted significant challenges, demonstrating that these experiences can build resilience and character, which are crucial for achieving long-term success.

Brainwriting is a collaborative brainstorming technique where individuals write down their ideas independently before sharing them with a group. This method helps prevent groupthink and ensures that all voices are heard more equally, leading to more diverse and innovative solutions. Grant discusses brainwriting as an effective strategy for maximizing collective intelligence in teams.

Character skills encompass positive personal qualities such as resilience, empathy, and integrity. Grant argues that these skills are just as important, if not more so, than cognitive skills for achieving success. Hidden Potential underscores the role of character skills in overcoming obstacles and making significant contributions in various fields.