Discover powerful quotes and insightful lessons from Think Again by Adam Grant that inspire rethinking, unlearning, and embracing curiosity.
“This is the right book for right now… Think Again helps us build the intellectual and emotional muscle we need to stay curious enough about the world to actually change it.” —Brené Brown, PhD, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Dare to Lead
In Think Again, bestselling author and organizational psychologist Adam Grant explores one of the most important—and often overlooked—skills of our time: the ability to rethink and unlearn. Known for his earlier works Give and Take and Originals, Grant now turns his focus to how we challenge our beliefs, open other people’s minds, and remain flexible in an increasingly complex world.
We often equate intelligence with the ability to think and learn. But in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, the ability to rethink, relearn, and let go of outdated views may be even more critical. Unfortunately, many of us cling to convictions for comfort, avoiding doubt and disagreement because it threatens our ego.
“Listening well is more than a matter of talking less. It's a set of skills in asking and responding.” —Adam Grant
Through bold ideas and compelling storytelling, Think Again reveals how we can embrace the joy of being wrong, foster healthy debate, and build environments where lifelong learning thrives. From a Black musician who disarms white supremacists to a vaccine whisperer convincing skeptics, Grant shares powerful examples of real-world mindset shifts.
He argues that too often, we operate like:
-
Preachers, defending our beliefs,
-
Prosecutors, attacking opposing views, or
-
Politicians, seeking approval—
instead of scientists, seeking truth with humility and curiosity.
“In a heated argument, you can always stop and ask, ‘What evidence would change your mind?’ If the answer is ‘nothing,’ then there’s no point in continuing the debate.” —Adam Grant
Inspiring Quotes and Key Lessons from Think Again
Think Again challenges the way we think—and rethink—about thinking itself. Below are powerful insights and takeaways that can help reshape your life, work, and relationships:
[1]. Think Like a Scientist
Always remain in a rethinking loop. True wisdom isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about recognizing the limits of what we know and being willing to explore the unknown.
[2]. Embrace Confident Humility
Humility doesn’t mean low self-esteem. It means accepting that you’re flawed and still growing. Confidence is knowing your strengths; humility is being open to growth.
[3]. Separate Identity from Opinion
When our beliefs become our identity, we take disagreement personally. Stay flexible and willing to update your thinking without feeling threatened.
[4]. Argue About How, Not Why
“Why” arguments become emotional and ego-driven. But “How” shifts the focus to solutions and invites constructive conversation.
[5]. Win Debates by Listening First
-
Highlight strong points in opposing views
-
Focus on fewer, well-supported arguments
-
Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions
[6]. Use Motivational Interviewing
You can’t force people to change. Instead, guide them to uncover their own motivation through:
-
Open questions
-
Reflective listening
-
Affirming their autonomy
[7]. Overcome Binary Thinking
Combat black-and-white worldviews with nuance. Introducing complexity helps people rethink rigid opinions and soften extreme positions.
[8]. Encourage Rethinking in Kids
Promote multiple drafts in creative projects. Each revision strengthens reflection and creativity, leading to more polished, thoughtful work.
[9]. Create Learning Organizations
Combine psychological safety and accountability to encourage questioning. Ask “How do we know?” often. That’s how growth begins.
[10]. Redefine Career Planning
Stop asking kids what they want to be. Let them explore what they want to do. Identity foreclosure limits growth—keep possibilities open.
“The difference between relationship conflict and idea conflict: one divides us; the other brings deeper understanding.” —Ismail Hussain
COMMENTS