Need a healthy dose of motivation so that you can finish the year with a bang? Here are five motivational TED Talks that are sure to inspire you.
Dan Pink: The Puzzle of Motivation
Speaking of motivation, career analyst Dan Pink examines the so-called “puzzle of motivation,” specifically what works and what doesn’t work when it comes to motivating people to close more sales. You might be surprised at what he has to say.
Insightful quote: “For twenty-first century tasks, that mechanistic, reward-and-punishment approach often doesn’t work, and often does harm.”
Seth Godin: How to Get Your Ideas to Spread
An “oldie” (from 2007), but a goodie, this TED talk from marketing guru Seth Godin explains why “bad or bizarre ideas are more successful than boring ones” when it comes to engaging people and getting their attention.
Insightful quote: “Instead, you have to find a group that really desperately cares about what it is you have to say, talk to them, and make it easy for them to tell their friends.”
Richard St. John: Success is a Continuous Journey
Clocking in under four minutes, this TED talk serves as the ultimate pep talk on the important topics of success and failure. St. John shares eight principles he swears by that will get you on the path to success.
Insightful quote: “I learned that success isn’t a one-way street. It’s a continuous journey.”
Elizabeth Gilbert: Your Elusive Creative Genius
Do you consider yourself a creative genius? The author Elizabeth Gilbert says you should, and she makes a compelling argument as to why. This incredibly inspiring talk will probably stir any dormant creativity inside of you, so be prepared.
Insightful quote: “Don’t be afraid. Don’t be daunted. Just do your job. Continue to show up for your piece of it, whatever that might be. If your job is to dance, do your dance.”
Sam Berns: My Philosophy for a Happy Life
At the age of two, Sam was diagnosed with progeria, “a rare, rapid aging disease.” At the time of his TED talk in 2013, Sam Berns was a 17-year-old junior from Foxboro, Massachusetts. He died a year later in January 2014. Heartfelt and inspiring, this TED talk is filled with wisdom for business—and for life.
Insightful quote: “Be OK with what you ultimately can’t do, because there’s so much that you can do.”
What are some of your favorite motivational TED talks? Feel free to share links in the comments below.