Founded in 1984 TED talks now are in more than 100 languages and span issues from science to business to global issues. These talks are sweeping across the world with the innovative ideas shared at the events. But with 3,100 plus talks now available, it can be hard to know where to start watching. That is why we compiled a list of some of the TED talks we found interesting related to leadership, government, and career categories.
Leadership
How to Speak so that People Want to Listen by Julian Treasure
Julian Treasure, a sound expert, shares the seven deadly sins of speaking that every individual should avoid. Along with demonstrating useful vocal exercises, tips, and the how-to’s of speaking with empathy and authority, Julian Treasure shares a vision of how speaking and listening in a thoughtful way can revolutionize our communication as a society.
Why Good Leaders Make You Feel Safe by Simon Sinek
A popular management theorist, Simon Sinek, discusses the ideas behind what makes a great leader. Sinek identifies that good leaders foster a secure working environment that develops a circle of trust for its employees. In his talk Sinek states that “leadership is a choice and not a rank” and that becoming a good leader takes great responsibility.
The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain
In this talk Susan Cain discusses the troubles of today’s culture that elevates being extroverted and outgoing above other qualities. Contained in this talk, Susan Cain elaborates on the strengths, talents, and abilities of introverts in schools, businesses, and government.
Career
The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown
Vulnerability is often seen as a negative, especially in the workplace; Brene Brown disagrees. In her TED talk in Houston she shares her research on human connection through our ability to belong, love and empathize with individuals in our life. Learn from this TED talk to deepen your understanding of how vulnerability and connection can strengthen you in your personal and professional life.
The Happy Secret to Better Work by Shawn Achor
Shawn Achor in his fast paced and entertaining talk shares the advantage to putting happiness before work. In this TED talk Shawn Achor discusses the practices to implement in order to create a happier internal and external environment in the workplace to increase productivity and success.
How to Make Stress Your Friend by Kelly McGonigal
In this TED talk by Kelly McGonigal we are challenged to view our stress in a new light. In the past, stress has been said to cause negative health factors and even early death. As a health psychologist, Kelly McGonigal teaches you how to handle stress and turn it into a positive experience.
Government
Government – Investor, risk-taker, innovator by Mariana Mazzucato
The government should get out of the way of the “real revolutionaries” or the private sector – is a sentiment that is spoken often, and according to Mariana Mazzucato that rhetoric is destructive. In her TED talk Mazzucato discusses how the government is actually a key to many of the past and future innovations deemed as revolutionary.
Demand a more open-source government by Beth Noveck
As the former deputy CTO at the White House, Beth Noveck shares her vision of practical openness for government. In this TED talk Noveck shares about the ways government has been working to share data, connect citizens, and create a free environment for innovation and idea generation.
Coding a Better Government by Jennifer Pahlka
Coder and activist Jennifer Pahlka speaks to the way government and technology, specifically app development, can revolutionize the way citizens and government work together. She talks about her belief that the government can run like the internet – permissionless, open, and increasingly more connected to citizens.
Start today and listen to some of America’s thought leaders speak on issues important to you. You can create an account and start watching TED talks that interest you by clicking here.
Once your account is created, explore the thousands of TED talks in all different categories. Here at MyGov we think you will enjoy watching talks in the Government, Global Issues, and Industrial design categories. If you would like to stay up to date on what TED is doing in real time, follow them on their social media platforms.
We hope today by watching a TED talk you can be enlightened, inspired, and ready to take on a topic important to you. Who knows, maybe you too can be a thought leader standing on a TED stage sharing your innovation to help the world.
Happy watching!