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My TEDx Talk is Live!

“When you begin to live your life like an interesting story, it has no other choice than to become one.”

One of my long-term goals/dreams was to give a TEDx talk. One day, I thought, after I do some more things, get a few more experiences/ accomplishments/ adventures under my belt, I’d apply to deliver a TEDx talk.

Maybe I’ll be ready in a few years.

And then in February, I was invited to give a TEDx talk at Lafayette College. And of course, I said yes.

I guess I have to be ready now.

And I sweat all the way to the finish line. Stay under 18 minutes. Be Inspiring. Be eloquent. Be funny. Put a big idea out into the world. No notes. No water.

No pressure…

I’ve learned to get over the fear of sharing my written words. I still feel a tinge of anxiety before sending out a blog post, but I act in spite of it. But sharing a video of myself? That’s still f’in hard.

Thank you to everyone who already shared this (before I even had a chance to!). But here it is — my TEDx talk from last month.

Why is it so hard to share your own stuff?? Because the moment you do, people can love it, hate it, share it, judge it, be inspired by it, or misinterpret it. The moment it’s put out into the world, it’s no longer yours. It’s the world’s.

Well, world, here goes.. It’s a nugget of a grander story I’ve been wanting to express fully in writing. Hope you enjoy.

You can watch it above. Or click here to watch it on YouTube. I’ll post the full transcript of the talk and share it next week.

If you like it, please share! Thanks for all your support.

Here are a few pictures from the event.

TEDx Chapelsmall
Walking into the venue. You can’t see my nervous side.
TEDx Pamphlet small
The program! Forgot to take a picture of the inside.
TEDx Setup small
A/V setup before kickoff. Cue the anxiety.

What do you think? I’m still refining my public speaking skills. Any feedback (good, bad, otherwise) is much appreciate. Let me know in the comments.




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