For anyone who’s looked at this blog, it’s no surprise that I’m a big fan of TED. From my very first TED Talk on Biomimicry (check it out, seriously still one of my faves) I was hooked! Imagine my delight in discovering the TED Radio Hour with Guy Raz! It’s an excellent podcast that alleviates much of the pain of my daily commute. Inspired by this series, we’ll be looking at some of the talks highlighted in the podcast in our upcoming TED Talk lunches. Of course, I’m still keen on receiving your suggestions.
Our next session details are on the TED Talk Lunch Schedule
Here’s what we watched on our November 1 TED Talk Lunch.
ADAM GRANT Are you a giver or a taker? (13:28)
In every workplace, there are three basic kinds of people: givers, takers and matchers. Organizational psychologist Adam Grant breaks down these personalities and offers simple strategies to promote a culture of generosity and keep self-serving employees from taking more than their share.
I’m not sayin’. Well, okay, sometimes I’m a giver and sometimes I’m a taker. Definitely more nerdy Ned than Dr. House though.
ANNA HERINGER The warmth and wisdom of mud buildings (13:02)
“There are a lot of resources given by nature for free — all we need is our sensitivity to see them and our creativity to use them,” says architect Anna Heringer. Heringer uses low-tech materials like mud and bamboo to create structures from China to Switzerland, Bangladesh and beyond. Visit an awe-inspiring school, an elegant office and cozy social spaces — all built from natural materials — in this delightful talk.
I really enjoyed this talk and her passion for mud! As a building material, that is.
EMILY ESFAHANI SMITH There’s more to life than being happy(12:18)
Our culture is obsessed with happiness, but what if there’s a more fulfilling path? Happiness comes and goes, says writer Emily Esfahani Smith, but having meaning in life — serving something beyond yourself and developing the best within you — gives you something to hold onto. Learn more about the difference between being happy and having meaning as Smith offers four pillars of a meaningful life.
What we’re really looking for in our lives is meaning, right? We want our lives and our efforts to mean something, to others and to ourselves. Where do you find meaning in your work?