Ted Talks are my go-to when I’m looking for a boost of motivation (and to be honest, I like to consider myself a bit of a Ted Talk connoisseur.) Here are eight of the most impactful, interesting, and inspiring Ted Talks by women that everyone can learn something from.
Teach girls bravery, not perfection – Reshma Saujani
Perfectionism is a common enemy, especially among women—and oftentimes, the fear of not succeeding gets in the way of trying in the first place. Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code, explains the problem with how young women are socialized, and why we should be encouraging girls to be courageous instead.
Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable – Luvvie Ajayi Jones
In this entertaining talk, speaker and author Luvvie Ajayi Jones describes her experiences of ziplining, skydiving, and embracing the unknown — and demonstrates why it’s necessary to venture out of your comfort zone.
“Everything happens for a reason” — and other lies I’ve loved – Kate Bowler
Professor and author Kate Bowler recounts the story of how her life was turned upside down with a stage IV cancer diagnosis. In a culture that seems to promote endless positivity and the notion that “good things happen to good people,” she explains how to cope when optimism isn’t an option.
Looks Aren’t Everything. Believe Me, I’m a Model. – Cameron Russell
In this talk, model Cameron Russell discusses the power of perception, the superficiality of image, and the reality that many of our outcomes in life are based on factors we can’t control.
meet Yourself: A User’s Guide to Building Self-Esteem – NIko Everett
Negative thoughts and internal pressures can really take a toll on our self confidence. In this talk, leadership coach Niko Everett explains how we can improve self esteem by learning to view ourselves from a different perspective.
How To Gain Control of YOur Free Time – Laura VanderKam
How do we accomplish everything we want to do, when it seems like there’s never enough time? Laura Vanderkam, a time management expert, shares how we can make the most of our schedules and prioritize what matters most.
On Being Wrong – Kathryn Schulz
Nobody likes being wrong. It’s frustrating, embarrassing, and uncomfortable — but maybe it’s beneficial. Journalist Kathryn Schulz makes the case for why we should be ok with being wrong, and how making mistakes is key to opening new possibilities.
You Don’t Find Happiness, YOu Create It – Katarina BLom
What does it actually mean to be happy? Most people desire meaning and connection in their lives, but how do we get there? Psychologist and author Katarina Blom describes how happiness might not be a destination, but a skill.