These TED talks will transform your life !

Have you ever seen TED talks? If yes, then I am sure they would have left you spell bound. These talks are a wonderful collection ideas from the best minds in their respective fields.

The best part is that they are available for free to anyone with an internet connection.

Below are few curated TED talks that will sure transform your thought framework and life.

1. ‘Sleep is your superpower’ by Matt Walker

In his eye-opening TED Talk titled “Sleep is Your Superpower,” Matt Walker, a renowned sleep scientist and professor of neuroscience, emphasizes the critical importance of sleep for our physical and mental well-being. Through engaging storytelling and compelling research, Walker reveals the profound impact that sleep has on our overall health, memory, creativity, and even our life expectancy.

Walker begins his talk by highlighting the alarming sleep deprivation epidemic in modern society. He explains how the demands of work, technology, and lifestyle choices have led to a significant decrease in sleep duration and quality.

He emphasizes that sleep should not be viewed as a luxury or a waste of time, but rather as a fundamental biological necessity that is essential for our optimal functioning.

Drawing upon a wealth of scientific studies, Walker presents a compelling case for the extraordinary benefits of sleep.

He discusses how sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, explaining that during sleep, our brains replay and strengthen the neural connections that underpin our learning and experiences.

He further explores the relationship between sleep and creativity, highlighting that a good night’s sleep enhances our problem-solving abilities and fosters innovative thinking.

Moreover, Walker dives into the impact of sleep on our physical health. He discusses the role of sleep in regulating our immune system, hormone production, and metabolism. Lack of sleep has been linked to a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain types of cancer.

Walker’s talk serves as a wake-up call, reminding us that prioritizing sleep is not only crucial for our well-being but can also be a powerful tool in preventing chronic illnesses.

Throughout his talk, Walker debunks common myths about sleep, such as the belief that we can function well on minimal sleep. He stresses that the notion of “sleeping when you’re dead” is not only inaccurate but detrimental to our health and productivity.

Walker urges individuals to make sleep a priority, emphasizing the importance of consistent sleep schedules, creating optimal sleep environments, and developing good sleep habits.

In conclusion, Matt Walker’s TED Talk, “Sleep is Your Superpower,” delivers a compelling message about the profound significance of sleep in our lives.

Through his expertise and compelling research, he highlights how sleep impacts our memory, creativity, physical health, and overall well-being.

By understanding the vital role that sleep plays in our lives and making it a priority, we can unlock the extraordinary benefits of sleep and unleash our true potential.

2. ‘A simple way to break a bad habit’ by Judson Brewer

In his captivating TED Talk titled “A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit,” Judson Brewer, a psychiatrist and addiction expert, shares insights on how mindfulness can help us overcome destructive habits and addictions.

With his engaging storytelling and scientific expertise, Brewer sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of habits and provides a practical approach to breaking free from their grip.

Brewer begins his talk by explaining the concept of the habit loop, which consists of a cue, a routine, and a reward. He emphasizes that habits are formed when the brain associates certain cues with the anticipated rewards, creating a cycle that perpetuates the behavior.

He further explores the role of craving in driving this loop, highlighting that cravings arise from the brain’s desire for a reward.

Drawing upon his research, Brewer presents a groundbreaking method to disrupt the habit loop through mindfulness. He suggests that by bringing awareness and curiosity to our cravings and the sensations they evoke, we can observe them without judgment.

By doing so, we create a mental space that allows us to recognize the true nature of our habits and make conscious choices instead of succumbing to automatic, compulsive behavior.

Brewer shares fascinating results from his studies on the effectiveness of mindfulness in breaking bad habits, including smoking cessation and emotional eating.

Through his research, he demonstrates that individuals who practice mindfulness-based techniques show significant reductions in craving-related brain activity and a higher likelihood of successfully breaking their habits compared to traditional methods.

By integrating mindfulness into our lives, Brewer argues that we can tap into the power of awareness and become more attuned to the triggers, cravings, and rewards that drive our habits.

He encourages the audience to develop a sense of curiosity towards their cravings, exploring them as if they were scientists studying their own minds.

This approach allows us to detach from the urge to indulge in destructive habits and instead make healthier choices that align with our long-term well-being.

In conclusion, Judson Brewer’s TED Talk, “A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit,” presents a compelling approach to overcoming destructive habits through the practice of mindfulness.

By understanding the habit loop and applying mindfulness techniques, we can break free from the grip of cravings and make conscious choices that promote positive change.

Brewer’s insights offer a practical and scientifically validated method for anyone seeking to break bad habits and cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life.

3. ‘The art of choosing’ by Sheena Lyengar

In her thought-provoking TED Talk titled “The Art of Choosing,” Sheena Iyengar, a renowned social psychologist and expert on decision-making, explores the fascinating world of choices and the complexities that come with them.

Through captivating storytelling and compelling research, Iyengar sheds light on how our choices shape our lives and offers valuable insights into the art of making decisions.

Iyengar begins her talk by recounting a personal experience from her childhood. Born with a visual impairment, she discusses how her condition affected her perception of choices and sparked her interest in studying the subject.

Drawing upon her own journey, she emphasizes that choices have the power to define our identities, shape our relationships, and determine the path of our lives.

Throughout the talk, Iyengar challenges the conventional notion that more choices always lead to greater happiness and satisfaction.

She highlights how the abundance of options can often overwhelm individuals, leading to decision paralysis and regret.

By sharing compelling studies and real-life examples, she demonstrates that the sheer number of choices can hinder our ability to make decisions and diminish the joy we derive from them.

Iyengar introduces the concept of choice overload, where an excess of choices can lead to anxiety and a decline in overall well-being.

She presents an intriguing study conducted at a grocery store, where offering customers a smaller selection of jams resulted in higher sales compared to a larger assortment.

This finding suggests that having fewer choices can actually enhance decision-making and increase customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, Iyengar delves into the cultural and societal factors that influence our choices. She discusses how cultural norms, personal values, and social pressures shape our decision-making processes.

Iyengar emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding these external influences in order to make choices that align with our authentic selves.

In conclusion, Sheena Iyengar’s TED Talk, “The Art of Choosing,” provides a fascinating exploration of decision-making and the intricate nature of choices.

Through her engaging storytelling and compelling research, she challenges our assumptions about choice and offers valuable insights into how we can navigate the complexities of decision-making.

By understanding the power of choice and the factors that influence our decisions, we can make more informed and fulfilling choices that align with our values and aspirations.

4. ‘Got a meeting? Take a walk’ by Nilofer Merchant

In her enlightening TED Talk titled “Got a Meeting? Take a Walk,” Nilofer Merchant, a business strategist and author, challenges the traditional notion of meetings and proposes a simple yet powerful solution: walking meetings.

Through her engaging storytelling and persuasive arguments, Merchant highlights the transformative benefits of incorporating physical movement into our professional interactions.

Merchant starts her talk by sharing a personal experience of feeling unheard and marginalized in conventional meeting settings.

This frustration prompted her to explore alternative approaches to fostering collaboration and creativity.

She introduces the concept of “onlyness,” which emphasizes the unique perspectives and contributions each individual brings to the table.

By advocating for walking meetings, Merchant unveils the hidden potential of incorporating movement into our professional lives.

She highlights how taking a walk can create an inclusive and egalitarian environment, where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and be heard.

Walking side by side, without the physical barriers of a boardroom or office, breaks down hierarchies and fosters more open and authentic conversations.

Merchant also brings attention to the health benefits of walking meetings. She explains how sitting for prolonged periods can have detrimental effects on our well-being, contributing to various health issues.

By integrating movement into meetings, we can improve our physical fitness, boost our energy levels, and enhance cognitive function, ultimately leading to more productive and creative discussions.

Moreover, Merchant argues that walking meetings can provide a conducive setting for generating innovative ideas.

She refers to studies that demonstrate the positive impact of physical activity on the brain, promoting divergent thinking and enhancing problem-solving skills.

By engaging both our bodies and minds, walking meetings can stimulate fresh perspectives and breakthrough solutions.

In conclusion, Nilofer Merchant’s TED Talk, “Got a Meeting? Take a Walk,” presents a compelling case for embracing walking meetings as a transformative approach to professional interactions.

By challenging the conventional meeting norms and incorporating movement into our work routines, we can create a more inclusive, energizing, and creative environment.

Merchant’s talk serves as a reminder that simple changes in our daily habits, such as taking a walk, can have profound positive effects on our well-being, collaboration, and overall productivity.

5. ‘What I learnt from going blind in space?’ by Chris Hadfield

In his captivating TED Talk titled “What I Learned from Going Blind in Space,” Chris Hadfield, a retired astronaut and former commander of the International Space Station (ISS), shares a profound and humbling experience from his time in space.

Hadfield reflects on the moment when he temporarily lost his vision while on a spacewalk and how it profoundly changed his perspective on life, fear, and the importance of preparedness.

Hadfield begins his talk by describing the awe-inspiring experience of being in space and the unique challenges it presents. He recounts the fateful moment when, during a spacewalk, his eyesight suddenly disappeared due to a malfunction in his spacesuit.

He vividly expresses the initial panic and fear he felt, as losing vision in the unforgiving environment of space could be catastrophic.

However, he quickly realized that panic and fear were counterproductive and that he needed to remain calm and focused to overcome the situation.

Through this harrowing experience, Hadfield learned a crucial lesson about the power of preparation and training. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the unexpected and investing time and effort into mastering one’s skills.

Hadfield credits the extensive training and simulations that astronauts undergo for enabling him to maintain composure and handle the crisis effectively. He underscores the idea that fear can be overcome by knowledge, preparation, and practice.

Furthermore, Hadfield reflects on the broader implications of his experience.

He highlights how the lessons he learned in space can be applied to our daily lives on Earth. He encourages individuals to embrace the unknown, face their fears head-on, and prepare for adversity.

Hadfield reminds us that fear should not hold us back from pursuing our dreams and that through deliberate preparation, we can build resilience and confidence in any situation.

In conclusion, Chris Hadfield’s TED Talk, “What I Learned from Going Blind in Space,” provides a profound and inspiring reflection on his experience of temporary blindness during a spacewalk.

Hadfield’s storytelling and insights remind us of the importance of preparedness, resilience, and overcoming fear.

His talk serves as a reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, with the right mindset and preparation, we can navigate through uncertainty and emerge stronger on the other side.

6. ‘Extreme ownership’ by Jocko Willink

In his powerful TED Talk titled “Extreme Ownership,” Jocko Willink, a former Navy SEAL and leadership consultant, delivers a compelling message about taking full responsibility for our actions and decisions.

Drawing from his experiences as a military leader, Willink emphasizes the importance of owning our mistakes, leading with humility, and fostering a culture of accountability.

Willink begins his talk by recounting a critical mission during his time in the military, where a series of mistakes and miscommunication led to disastrous consequences.

He highlights the pivotal moment when he realized that as a leader, he had failed to take ownership of the situation. This revelation became the catalyst for his understanding of the concept of extreme ownership and its transformative power.

The core principle of extreme ownership, as Willink explains, is the belief that leaders must take responsibility for everything under their charge.

He emphasizes that true leaders don’t make excuses or shift blame onto others but instead accept ownership of both successes and failures.

Willink illustrates this principle with compelling anecdotes from his military career, showcasing how taking ownership can lead to better decision-making, improved teamwork, and ultimately, mission success.

Moreover, Willink explores the notion of decentralized command, where leaders empower their subordinates to make decisions and take ownership of their respective areas of responsibility.

He emphasizes the importance of clear communication, mutual trust, and fostering a culture of accountability within teams and organizations. By instilling a sense of ownership at all levels, leaders can unleash the collective potential and drive their teams towards peak performance.

Willink’s talk extends beyond the military realm, providing valuable insights applicable to various aspects of life.

He stresses that extreme ownership is not limited to leaders but is a mindset that everyone can adopt.

By embracing ownership and accountability in our personal and professional lives, we can overcome obstacles, learn from failures, and continually improve ourselves and those around us.

In conclusion, Jocko Willink’s TED Talk, “Extreme Ownership,” delivers a compelling message about the power of taking full responsibility for our actions and decisions.

Through his experiences as a Navy SEAL and leadership consultant, Willink emphasizes the importance of owning our mistakes, leading with humility, and fostering a culture of accountability.

By embracing extreme ownership, we can become more effective leaders, build stronger teams, and create a positive impact in all areas of our lives.

7. ‘Why reading matters?’ by Rita Carter

In her thought-provoking TED Talk titled “Why Reading Matters,” Rita Carter, a renowned science and medical writer, explores the profound impact of reading on our brains and overall well-being.

Through her engaging presentation, Carter highlights the cognitive, emotional, and social benefits of reading, and emphasizes the importance of nurturing a reading habit in our lives.

Carter begins her talk by discussing the unique relationship between reading and our brains.

She explains how reading engages multiple areas of the brain, stimulating neural connections and enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, language processing, and problem-solving.

She describes reading as a mental workout that exercises our minds and expands our intellectual capacities.

Beyond the cognitive benefits, Carter delves into the emotional impact of reading. She argues that reading provides a means of escapism and emotional engagement that can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and even loneliness.

By immersing ourselves in narratives, we can empathize with characters, explore diverse perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Carter also highlights the social significance of reading. She emphasizes how literature connects people across time and cultures, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.

Through reading, we gain access to different ideas, perspectives, and knowledge, broadening our horizons and promoting a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Furthermore, Carter addresses concerns about the decline of reading in the digital age. While acknowledging the prevalence of digital media, she argues that reading, in its traditional form, remains an invaluable activity. She encour

ages individuals to carve out dedicated time for reading and to immerse themselves in the power of printed words, as it offers a unique and enriching experience that cannot be replicated by other mediums.

In conclusion, Rita Carter’s TED Talk, “Why Reading Matters,” serves as a reminder of the profound impact that reading has on our brains, emotions, and social connections.

Through her insights and research, Carter underscores the cognitive benefits of reading, its ability to foster empathy and emotional well-being, and its role in shaping a more connected and informed society.

By recognizing the importance of reading and actively nurturing this habit, we can cultivate a lifelong love for literature and tap into the transformative power of books.

8. ‘The power of fitness’ by Vincent Lam

In the fast-paced modern world, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, one aspect that often takes a backseat is our own well-being.

But in a captivating TED Talk titled ‘The Power of Fitness,’ the esteemed Vincent Lam, a renowned fitness expert, breathes new life into the age-old notion of staying physically active.

With boundless energy and a captivating presence, Lam takes his audience on an inspiring journey that reveals the true potential of fitness as a life-changing force.

Drawing from his own personal experiences and extensive research, Lam emphasizes that fitness is much more than just a means to achieving a desirable physique.

It is, in essence, a conduit to unlock the inner dynamo within each of us. Lam delves into the remarkable ways in which regular exercise not only transforms our bodies but also revitalizes our minds and spirits.

He unveils the untapped reservoir of resilience and strength that lies dormant within, waiting to be awakened by the power of fitness.

Through captivating anecdotes and real-life stories of individuals who have experienced life-altering transformations through fitness, Lam’s TED Talk sparks a powerful emotional connection with the audience.

He unravels the scientific evidence that supports the far-reaching benefits of physical activity, from reducing stress and enhancing cognitive function to boosting self-confidence and fostering a positive outlook on life.

With each word, Lam illuminates the path towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling existence through the embodiment of fitness.

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Lam’s talk is his ability to dispel the myth that fitness is an unattainable goal reserved only for the elite.

He passionately asserts that anyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or circumstance, can embark on this transformative journey.

Armed with practical tips, Lam empowers his listeners to take that first step towards embracing an active lifestyle and unearthing their own dormant potential.

In the end, ‘The Power of Fitness’ leaves an indelible mark on its audience, igniting a fire within each individual to embrace their bodies as vessels of strength and resilience.

Vincent Lam’s captivating TED Talk stands as a testament to the extraordinary impact that fitness can have on our lives – an impact that reaches far beyond the confines of the gym, seeping into every aspect of our existence and empowering us to become the best versions of ourselves.