Ten of the Best TEDx Talks for Young Professionals

 
 
 
 

A good tedx talk can inspire, encourage, teach, and provide invaluable perspective.

These short videos are produced with a mission to “discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility and catalyze impact.” As first generation professionals, we are consistently learning and shaping our skillsets and worldviews. Check out this (non-exhaustive!) list of TEDx Talks to put on during your commute, in between meetings, or during professional development time.

 
  1. Your body language may shape who you are

    Amy Cuddy | TEDGlobal 2012 | June 2012

    “Amy Cuddy’s research on body language reveals that we can change other people’s perceptions — and perhaps even our own body chemistry — simply by changing body positions.”

    Link

  2. A kinder, gentler philosophy of success

    Alain de Botton | TEDGlobal 2009 | July 2009

    “Alain de Botton examines our ideas of success and failure -- and questions the assumptions underlying these two judgments. Is success always earned? Is failure? He makes an eloquent, witty case to move beyond snobbery to find true pleasure in our work.”

    Link

  3. What does it take to change a mind?

    Lucinda Beaman | TEDxSydney 2018 | June 2018

    “As fact check editor at The Conversation, Lucinda Beaman sees first-hand the conflict between facts and beliefs. She offers a framework for understanding how we process information and how we can connect with those who disagree with us.”

    Link

  4. How to speak so that people want to listen

    Julian Treasure | TEDGlobal 2013 | June 2013

    “Have you ever felt like you're talking, but nobody is listening? Here's Julian Treasure to help. In this useful talk, the sound expert demonstrates the how-to's of powerful speaking -- from some handy vocal exercises to tips on how to speak with empathy. A talk that might help the world sound more beautiful.”

    Link

  5. The power of introverts

    Susan Cain | TED2012 | February 2012

    “In a culture where being social and outgoing are prized above all else, it can be difficult, even shameful, to be an introvert. But, as Susan Cain argues in this passionate talk, introverts bring extraordinary talents and abilities to the world, and should be encouraged and celebrated.”

    Link

  6. How to make stress your friend 

    Kelly McGonigal | TEDGlobal 2013 | June 2013

    “Stress. It makes your heart pound, your breathing quicken and your forehead sweat. But while stress has been made into a public health enemy, new research suggests that stress may only be bad for you if you believe that to be the case. Psychologist Kelly McGonigal urges us to see stress as a positive, and introduces us to an unsung mechanism for stress reduction: reaching out to others.”

    Link

  7. The power of vulnerability

    Brené Brown | TEDxHouston | June 2010

    “Brené Brown studies human connection -- our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity. A talk to share.”

    Link

  8. What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness 

    Robert Waldinger | TEDxBeaconStreet | November 2015

    “What keeps us happy and healthy as we go through life? If you think it's fame and money, you're not alone – but, according to psychiatrist Robert Waldinger, you're mistaken. As the director of a 75-year-old study on adult development, Waldinger has unprecedented access to data on true happiness and satisfaction. In this talk, he shares three important lessons learned from the study as well as some practical, old-as-the-hills wisdom on how to build a fulfilling, long life.”

    Link

  9. The happy secret to better work

    Shawn Achor | TEDxBloomington | May 2011

    “We believe we should work hard in order to be happy, but could we be thinking about things backwards? In this fast-moving and very funny talk, psychologist Shawn Achor argues that, actually, happiness inspires us to be more productive.”

    Link

  10. 10 ways to have a better conversation 

    Celeste Headlee | TEDxCreativeCoast | May 2015

    “When your job hinges on how well you talk to people, you learn a lot about how to have conversations -- and that most of us don't converse very well. Celeste Headlee has worked as a radio host for decades, and she knows the ingredients of a great conversation: Honesty, brevity, clarity and a healthy amount of listening. In this insightful talk, she shares 10 useful rules for having better conversations. ‘Go out, talk to people, listen to people,’ she says. ‘And, most importantly, be prepared to be amazed.’”

    Link

 

let us know your favorite tedx talks in the comments!

 

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