The path to a successful career is rarely without its bends and curves. There are times of frustration, of uninspiration; times when you are riddled with self-doubt, and even utter powerlessness. Precisely in times like these, you can benefit from a little dose of inspiration and encouragement, to tackle the periods of demotivation and despair.
For this very reason, here is a list of 9 carefully-curated Ted and Tedx Talks, that are sure to instil purpose and direction into your career. Each of these videos carry some very significant lessons that will help you at every single point of your career journey.
1. When life is throwing curveballs at you
Living Beyond Limits | Amy Purdy
Amy Purdy is a professional snowboarder despite having lost both her legs to bacterial meningitis. She describes her experiences with her disability, the power of imagination, and explains how life rarely proceeds the way we plan it to go, yet it is the choices we make that determine our lives in the end.
2. …and you are feeling down in the dumps
My Philosophy for a Happy Life | Sam Berns
Sam’s life isn’t exactly what most would define as “perfect”. However, he has never let his circumstances get the better of him. In this uplifting talk, Sam Berns shares the ways he keeps negativity out of his life, to embrace life, warts and all.
3. …it is important to keep the negative elements out of your life
The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong | Amy Morin
Mental strength is not just a matter of integrating certain beliefs or habits, it is also about getting rid of the bad ones. Having faced her fair share of storms in life, Amy Morin shares a few habits that mentally strong people do not engage in, habits that often prevent us from being the people we can be.
4. When you are trying to figure out what makes you tick
Life is Your Talents Discovered | Sir Ken Robinson
“Knowledge isn’t about what you know, it is about what you don’t know.” Sir Ken Robinson talks about how talents are not always visible on the surface, one has to go look for it.
5. …and need that extra effort to chase your dreams
How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over | Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins, in this highly motivating talk, teaches us how to stop making excuses, and not give up. This talk is guaranteed to jolt you out of your bed, and on to your study chair/work desk.
6. When you are not feeling particularly powerful and in control
Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are | Amy Cuddy
This one has proved most useful to me. We are often cognizant of other people’s body language, and the effect it has on us. Yet we rarely stop to think that our own body language too has a profound effect on our emotions, confidence levels, and ultimately, our chances of success. Social psychologist, Mel Robbins, tells us how you can “fake it till you become it.”
7. …and need that extra boost of motivation
Why did I Ski to the North Pole? | Ben Saunders
“No one else is the authority on your potential. You’re the only person that decides how far you go and what you’re capable of.” Ben Saunders is the youngest person ever to ski solo to the North Pole. Hi talk about how he succeeded to fulfil his aspirations, in the face of harrowing challenges, is sure to leave you inspired to pursue whatever you put your mind to.
8. When you are trying to find the mantra to success
The Happy Secret to Better Work | Shawn Achor
In this humour-filled talk, Shawn Achor talks about the ‘happiness advantage’, i.e. how happiness drives success, rather than the other way round. He shares some ways how you can bring about small changes in your happiness and positivity levels, to move a step closer to success.
9. …and need the secret behind self-motivation to help
The Psychology of Self-Motivation | Scott Geller
Scott Geller uses psychological research and concepts to elucidate how self-motivation works, and the four factors that contribute to the feeling of competence, motivation, and success.
(Bonus) When all is said and done, some insightful words from a brilliant man can do wonders.
Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address
In his commencement speech at Stanford University’s graduation ceremony, the great man talks about life, fulfilling dreams, and making a mark, drawing from some of the defining moments of his life.
Stay strong, stay positive.
Do you have any motivational videos you turn to, in times of distress? Share with us in the comments!
