The Key to Success: Ted Talks

One of the keys to being successful in the real world is to stay motivated. Everyone finds motivation in different ways whether it’s through music, reading or talking to a close friend. For me, it's Ted Talks. I first discovered Ted Talks about two years ago and I don’t know what I’d do without them!

If you aren’t familiar, TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas. TED Talks promote that in short, powerful talks which are usually no more than 25 – 30 minutes. They range in topics such as technology, entertainment, business, global issues and more. Speakers also differentiate from topic experts to celebrities. Bono, Monica Lewinsky, Al Gore, Bill Gates, Sarah Silverman, Bill Clinton, Sting and Mark Ronson are some who have seen the TED Talks stage.

I find myself watching them whenever I get discouraged and need to get back on track. Warning: once you start watching them you might not be able to stop. They're also really good conversational topics. Here are a few to start off and get you thinking! Once you watch them, share with a friend!

Monica Lewinsky: The Price of Shame

Mel Robbins: How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over

Meg Jay: Why 30 is Not the New 20

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: We Should All Be Feminists

Tracy McMillan: The Person You Really Need to Marry

Thandie Newton: Embracing Otherness, Embracing Myself

Depending on the talk topic I like to think about a few things before I watch it and what I hope to gain out of it. After I watch it I reevaluate and review. This is good for me because it allows me to really take away something that I can use to motivate myself moving forward. It can be something as simple as a quote said, a book recommendation or a takeaway word.

Whether you’re transitioning from college to an entry-level job, just started a job or are dealing with the unemployment hump – Ted Talks can get you thinking and stay motivated.