In the midst of change and uncertainty, who doesn’t love a good TED Talk?
When making transitions in life, these talks have guided me through profound and deep reflection and helped me discover realizations that I may not have otherwise. And I’m sure I’m not alone in this regard.
But if you’re searching deep and wanting to dive into a TED Talk (or two) that could potentially change your life, these eight talks are it.
Take what you need; leave what you don’t. Which of these speaks the most to you?
8 Powerful TED Talks That Will Blow You Away
1. The Power of Vulnerability By Brené Brown
In this powerful TED Talk, researcher and professor Brené Brown discusses the importance of connection. But she doesn’t just go over why connection is important; she discusses the undeniable power of vulnerability and shame. And how worthiness comes from courage, compassion, and connection.
But at the center of all of this is vulnerability.
Vulnerability is often seen as weakness. Yet, it’s actually a beautiful (and necessary) side to being human and connecting with other humans.
This talk skyrocketed Brené Brown onto the world stage. It required her to be vulnerable with her audience while converting her research about what predicates worthiness. And if you have missed this one in any shape or form, it’s worth the watch.
Want more Brené Brown? Read this next: Brené Brown Atlas of the Heart: Book Review & Takeaways→
2. Do Schools Kill Creativity? By Sir Ken Robinson
This TED Talk examines the intersection of education and creativity, or lack thereof.
Sir Ken Robinson theorized that creativity and education should be held on par with one another.
“If you’re not prepared to be wrong, you’ll never come up with anything original,” Sir Ken Robinson states in his talk.
Yet, as we grow into adults, we tend to grow out of creativity. We fear being wrong. And this is exactly what Robinson takes on in this talk.
3. Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are By Amy Cuddy
Change your posture for two minutes; try sitting up straight and confidently.
The argument by social psychologist Amy Cuddy in this TED Talk is that this can fundamentally change who you are.
It can impact your career trajectory, your love life, and more. Amy Cuddy asks the question, “Do our nonverbals govern how we think and feel about ourselves?” “Do our bodies change our minds?”
The surprising answer is yes! How we hold ourselves can have an immense impact on how we view ourselves. And this can change who we are. So, give this one a listen to become who you want to be, all through your body language.
4. How to Speak So That People Want to Listen By Julian Treasure
Many people don’t feel heard.
But is it within our control? Keynote speaker Julian Treasure explores how and why people listen, as well as how you can gain more listeners with your ideas. Generally, it’s all about spreading sunshine and lightness as opposed to negativity.
Using the “HAIL” acronym (honesty, authenticity, integrity and love), Treasure explores how we can communicate better so that we are heard. If this is something you struggle with, this talk is absolutely worth 10 minutes of your time. Get ready to learn and for your mind to be blown.
Related Article: 3 Things to Help You Commit to Change & Doing the Tough Stuff→
5. What Makes a Good Life? Lessons From the Longest Study on Happiness By Robert Waldinger
This is by far my favorite study (and I’ve read a lot of studies!) about human behavior and happiness.
- How can you become your best self?
- Where should you invest your time and energy?
In this TED Talk, psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Robert Waldinger explores what is truly important for life satisfaction. And no, it’s not fame or money.
Waldinger presents the results from the longest study on happiness ever done. As the fourth director of this study, Waldinger digs deep and reveals the discovery that led to true happiness toward the end of life. This isn’t one to miss, especially if you worry about life passing you by.
6. How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over By Mel Robbins
A third of Americans feel dissatisfied with their lives.
But motivational speaker Mel Robbins is bent on changing this. In this TED Talk, Mel Robbins explores how you can truly get what you want in life and how you can quit lying to yourself and everyone around you.
So, if you’re ready to make some serious changes, Mel Robbins offers simple ways that can change your behavior.
Related Article: 6 Effortless Ways to Trick Yourself Into Being Motivated→
7. How to Make Stress Your Friend By Kelly McGonigal
Stress is everywhere today; there’s no escaping it.
In her TED Talk, health psychologist Kelly McGonigal talks about changing her approach to stress. Instead of eliminating it, it’s all about befriending it. Instead of making it your enemy, it’s all about accepting it.
And yes, it’s entirely possible to make stress your friend. Discover how in just 15 minutes through this easy-to-follow and insightful TED Talk.
8. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance By Angela Lee Duckworth
Does doing well in life depend on more than IQ?
Psychologist and academic Angela Lee Duckworth argues yes. In this TED Talk, Duckworth narrows in on the single predictor of success: Grit.
And no, this has absolutely nothing to do with talent. However, Duckworth digs into the development of “Grit” through the growth mindset and what this means.
As one of the shorter talks on this list, if you have even just five minutes, this one can offer profound insights into changes you may need to make to pave your way toward what you deem successful.
Knowledge is Power!
The more we learn, the more we know, and the more data points we have to make our decisions going forward. Listen or watch the above; they are bound to change your entire world.
Read Next: Free Your Mind: 5 Transformative Steps to Change Your Story→
Updated from Nov 21, 2023
Photo by Matheus Bertelli
