TED Talks are easily one of the best ways to get a little dosage of a new perspective. There are hundreds of speakers and videos on just about every topic you could imagine. When you have around twenty minutes to spare or need a little surge of inspiration, check out one of the following TED Talks and let us know what you think about it. While you may not agree, you’ll at least leave with new insights and opinions that leave you thinking.
Here are six of my personal favorites so far.
Your Elusive Creative Genius by Elizabeth Gilbert
I’ve heard of this TED Talks video for a while now and have just got around to watching it a few nights ago. I loved this perspective on creativity. While it’s not a new perspective, it’s one that Elizabeth Gilbert feels is important to adopt in our current society. The perspective is this: we’re not always in control of our creativity. Creativity can come to us in weird ways that don’t feel like they’re coming to us from within and maybe it doesn’t.
Side note: Let me know if any of you have read her book on creativity yet! I’m currently debating whether or not to pick it up.
Length: 19:28
Takeaway: Maybe we’re not entirely in control of our creative “genius”
How to Make Stress your Friend by Kelly McGonigal
Kelly discusses how we shouldn’t fear stress. The act of fearing stress may be more impacting on our lives than stress itself. Stress doesn’t have to be a horrible thing and it surprisingly has some benefits. I’m a big believer in changing your mindset about things. Change your mindset, change your life.
Length: 14:28
Takeaway: Stress is not the enemy.
Everything you Know About Addiction is Wrong by Johann Hari
So this one might be a bit controversial, but that’s why it’s awesome. Johann argues that society’s perspective on drugs is wrong. He points out that not everyone gets addicted to addictive drugs. The people who become addicts are without deep connections. Because of some loss of connection, they feel the need to latch onto something that makes them feel better. But, if a healthy, connected person was to try heroin for a period of time, they are not likely to become addicted to the “addictive” substance.
Length: 14:42
Takeaway: It’s less about drugs being addictive and more about connection.
Why Happy Couples Cheat by Esther Perel
Esther discusses why we feel such hurt when someone cheats on us. But, she gives a nice perspective about the reasons why happy couples cheat that might not be about you at all. Sometimes, people may cheat, because they don’t like who they have become. They might feel that they need the thrill and risk losing it all, because they question their life and think, “is this it?”
Length: 21:30
Takeaway: Sometimes when someone cheats on you, it’s not about you at all.
How To Stop Screwing Yourself Over by Mel Robbins
This video wasn’t life changing information or incredibly detailed, but it gave me one point that has changed my thoughts drastically. So, you’ve got the thought in your head that you want to do something? Do it now or in 5..4..3..2..1. Not done yet? Okay, you’ve already convinced yourself that you’re not doing it at all. I really thought about this and realized how true this is in my life. If I allow myself more than five seconds to talk myself out of it, it doesn’t get done.
Note to you after you watch it: To be honest with you, I’m not sure that I fully agree with the rest of her perspective. Because, I believe we can change our mindsets to “want” to do things instead of “forcing” ourselves like the message she drives home. But, it does give you a good pep talk to get off your couch. Get out there and work towards your goals, friends.
Length: 21:39
Takeaway: Don’t allow yourself five seconds to talk yourself out of something that’s good for you.
The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown
This one didn’t necessarily change my perspective about vulnerability, because I’ve never believed it to be a weakness (but I know that many do!). That being said, it gave me more insight to the ways in which it impacts our culture. Shaming is so prevalent in the way we teach and raise children. I’d highly recommend her book, Daring Greatly, as well. She dives deeper into the topic and really makes you understand the importance of vulnerability.
Length: 20:49
Takeaway: Showing vulnerability is not weakness.
Let us know what your favorite TED Talks videos are in the comments below!
