We all need a little encouragement from time to time. Whether it’s getting through a long work week or surviving the craziness of final exams, the right inspiration can go a long way in keeping us motivated to achieve our goals.
That’s why we’re sharing some of our favorite TED Talks that are perfect for business students and professionals with #goalsinmind. The five listed below range in topics from finding creativity and happiness in your work to how to be a better leader and inspire others.
No matter what you’ve set your mind to achieve, we think these inspirational talks will change your perspective and give you the extra boost of encouragement you need to make it to the finish line.
On Creativity
The Surprising Habits of Original Thinkers
Organizational psychologist Adam Grant shares some of the features that the most original thinkers have in common. He also talks about how the sweet spot of creativity lies in between procrastination and what he calls “pre-crastination,” and why idea doubt is more energizing than self-doubt.
Our favorite quote: “Originals are nonconformists — people who not only have new ideas, but take action to champion them. They’re people who stand out and speak up.”
On Happiness and Workplace Success
The Happy Secret to Better Work
In this humorous talk, psychologist Shawn Achor discusses why success doesn’t always lead to greater happiness, but happiness often leads to greater success. Listen to this talk to learn how focusing on the positive aspects of life are more likely to make you a happier, and ultimately more successful, employee.
Our favorite quote: “Seventy-five percent of job successes are predicted by your optimism levels, your social support and your ability to see stress as a challenge instead of as a threat.”
On Debunking the Myths that Keep Us From Our Dreams
5 Ways to Kill Your Dreams
Bel Pesce takes a counterintuitive approach to inspiring listeners of her talk. She presents her audience with five rules to follow to guarantee you won’t reach your dreams. Her talk will convince you to never fall for these dream-killing myths again.
Our favorite quote: “Achieving a dream is a momentary sensation, and your life is not. The only way to really achieve all of your dreams is to fully enjoy every step of your journey.”
On Becoming a Better Leaders
Why Good Leaders Make You Feel Safe
Author and management theorist Simon Sinek discusses some of the traits that make the best leaders stand out. Whether you’re leading a company or serving as officer for a student organization, his research will inspire you to become a more influential leader for those around you.
Our favorite quote: “Great leaders want to provide their people opportunity, education, discipline when necessary, build their self-confidence, give them the opportunity to try and fail, all so that they could achieve more than we could ever imagine for ourselves.”
On Pursuing Your Greatest Passion
How to Find Work You Love
Lifestyle website founder Scott Dinsmore shares his personal story of leaving a job he disliked to pursue a dream he cared about. Dinsmore makes a compelling case for why we should all put ourselves in a field where we can follow our greatest passions.
Our favorite quote: “Everything was impossible until somebody did it. You can either hang around the people who tell you it can’t be done and tell you you’re stupid for trying, or surround yourself with the people who inspire possibility.”
By Priscilla Aceves