Now we’ve moved into 2014, have a look at these inspiring TED talks to boost your motivation and spirits for the year ahead.
Diana Nyad: Never, ever give up
Last year, long distance swimmer, Diana Nyad, completed a gruelling 100 mile swim from Cuba to Florida at the age of 64. Her talk, aptly titled “Never, ever give up” describes her exhausting journey and the lessons she learnt along the way. At times humorous, at other times poignant, Diana’s speech encourages people to overcome obstacles and continue to persevere to reach what may initially appear to be unattainable goals.
Andy Puddicombe: All it takes is 10 mindful minutes
A former Buddhist monk, Andy Puddicombe advocates the benefits of meditation, by simply taking a daily ten minute break to do absolutely nothing. He explains that by taking time-out, we can enter a state of focused relaxation, allowing thoughts to come and go, and gaining some much needed perspective. By becoming more mindful and letting go of our anxieties and fears, we ultimately become calmer, happier and healthier. A great talk to keep in mind during the hustle and bustle of a stressful work day.
Matt Cutts: Try something new for 30 days
Feeling stuck in a rut? This new year, there’s no better time to try out something you’ve always wanted to do, but never got around to achieving. Matt Cutts explains the inspiring benefits that come with making small, sustainable changes to your life. Changing your habits or taking up a new challenge for 30 days makes your time more memorable, boosts your self-confidence, and proves once again that you can do anything if you want it badly enough. Here’s to exciting new adventures in 2014, no matter how big or small!
Derek Sivers: Keep your goals to yourself
Musician Derek Sivers advocates something rather unusual – keeping your goals to yourself, instead of telling other people what you plan to do. He presents examples in his speech that show how people who talk about their resolutions may be less likely to achieve them. Whether or not you believe his counter-intuitive theory, now is the time to think about your resolutions for the year, and what you plan to accomplish in 2014.
Richard St. John: Success is a continuous journey
Businessman and analyst Richard St. John emphasises a very important point in his TED talk – success is a continuous process, not a one-way street. People need to continue working on things they love, and create additional goals when initial targets have been reached. St. John explains that people fall into a rut once they stop trying – to avoid a business slump, we need to keep aiming higher.
We hope you’ve found this selection of talks both interesting and inspiring – and we wish you a successful 2014!