Becca North

Page Title

Online Reviews (via Amazon)

“I could not put this book down! Thank you, Dr. North, for shining light on a taboo topic in a way that is empowering, uplifting, and interesting. With rigorous research (both her own and from other scientists) and compelling stories, Your Hidden Superpowers will reset the way you think about failure. I loved the interviews with Maya Angelou and Cory Booker especially – they told their own truths so honestly and openly about the power of failure, setbacks, and painful experiences.... Even in these difficult moments, they found ways to learn and grow – and Dr. North combines their anecdotes with data to inspire readers along the way. I’ve been telling friends and colleagues to run to this book since I put it down. A fascinating, powerful read.”

“I think at least two of the interviews in this book can change a life, and I mean that sincerely. One could build a business or a life on what Mike Krzyzewski reveals as the basis of his success in coaching (Coach K – head coach of Duke’s men’s basketball and the winningest coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball history).... I could have used his insight earlier! And I thought I knew how much there is to admire about Maya Angelou’s life, but the story she personally related to this book’s author will stay with me.”

“This was an inspirational and thought-shifting read! North weaves together formal psychology research, interviews, poetry, literature, film, and even some insights from Grey’s Anatomy in order to illustrate important truths about the potential for big painful failures to launch us toward our most authentic lives. The author interviewed several well-known “successful” people — including Maya Angelou, Coach K, and Cory Booker — about their own experiences with real, painful, even humiliating failures, and she offers a path we might all take to, not just bounce back from, but to actually grow and flourish from failure....

This is my favorite type of non-fiction: real research + personal stories in a distinct (and charming) voice. I read it in a single day, and I expect I’ll be thinking about it and talking about it for much longer. It’s the sort of book I feel an urge to send immediately to several friends and colleagues.”

“This book is an incredible reminder to be gracious to yourself. The combination of research and wide-ranging personal stories tells us everyone experiences the psychological impact of failure, no matter how successful you are. Those who embrace failure – embrace the pain, rather than pass or re-position it – have the opportunity to get in touch with their more authentic self, leading to a more fulfilled life. I’m excited to practice this philosophy and be open, kind, and in tune with my true self, and to accept and support the failures of my family and friends as well. Well-written, insightful, and full of funny pop-culture references – I strongly recommend this book!”