I’ve been so busy over the last couple days I’ve not had time to post in my normal cadence. Between the new year, work, planning for vacation next week (yay) and prepping my syllabus for my class this semester I’ve been stretched a bit thin.
I was discussing one of my favorite books, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, with my team today and the concept of synergy crossed my mind. Life is all about cooperating with other to explore new ideas and to find solutions to our problems. As I was preparing my syllabus I’ve decided to incorporate a new assignment for my students. I’m a HUGE fan of TED Talks (you may have heard of them) and I’ve elected for my students to choose from a list of my personal favorites and share their thoughts in a brief paper. (I know, I’m the worst). It’s adding a TON of workload to my grade book, but I feel it is so important to be exposed to the ideas, principles and encouragement of great minds. Below is the list of TED Talks that have changed the way I think and positively influenced my approach to life.
Below are my favorites, ranked by their impact on my life and hyperlinked for you to view should you choose.
Brené Brown – The Power of Vulnerability
Shawn Anchor – The Happy Secret to Better Work
Simon Sinek – How Leaders Inspire Action
Larry Smith – Why You Will Fail to Have a Great Career
Meg Jay – Why 30 Is Not the New 20
Kelly McGonigal – How to Make Stress Your Friend
Celeste Headlee – 10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation
I could never begin to summarize these ideas and do them justice. It must be noted that Brené Brown’s talk has changed my life. I watch it every now and then to remind myself of the importance of human connection and her explanation of why we struggle with it so much. Shawn Anchor’s talk helped me change the way I filter the world around me. Larry Smith’s talk is quite entertaining and Kelly McGonigal’s discussion on stress is just wonderful.
Take the time to watch – even if you just pick one. I’m sure one of these topics strikes a chord with you and who knows it might help.
I wish I were profound enough to have thoughts prepared to speak on such a stage. Maybe one day I will. For now, I share these ideas with you in the hopes they impact you in a positive way.
And if you have any interest, I hope to be back into my normal swing of writing soon.
David
Be a Manager of Life 