I’m an introvert and a highly sensitive person (HSP), with big compassion for all beings in my case. My readers also have big hearts. We have our own way of seeing the world, and we need our kind of inspiration and guidance. I’m collected some good TED talks here that support our needs.
As introverts or as HSPs (or both), we need our own set of tools to live out our caring values. We too easily shame ourselves for not doing enough, or not doing it right, assuming we’re supposed to be loud and social like those “activists.” I disagree with the idea of a one-size-fits-all model for expressing our caring and living our purpose.
We need to do things differently, in a way that honors our energy needs and our big compassionate hearts. I think we need big doses of:
- Understanding of introversion, extroversion, and high sensitivity, and our needs.
- Self-care that supports us.
- Making a difference in our own way.
I’ve selected these inspiring and informative TED talks to support our cultivation of those 3 ingredients.
1) Understanding Ourselves and What Works for Us
- Susan Cain: The power of introverts (19:04)
Susan Cain is the author of the bestseller, Quiet. Both introverts and extroverts will benefit from watching. This happens to be one of the most popular TED talks and you’ll see why. (Introverts make great speakers!) - Janice Chaka: The workplace isn’t designed for introverts, but it should be (13:12)
The traditional workplace is not set up for how introverts like to work, but with a few small changes that benefit introverts and extroverts alike, we could increase productivity and decrease stress. From an HR professional offering introvert leadership coaching and HR consulting. - Marianne Cantwell: The hidden power of not (always) fitting in (18:22) – She’s an HSP multi-passionate woman and a beautiful storyteller. Wow. Such important points about finding your true path when you feel stuck. So much gold here for breaking free.
- Marwa Azab: Are you too sensitive? Should you change? (12:13)
A good description of what sensitivity actually is and how it could be helpful.
2) Self-care that supports us
I’m sharing 3 talks that have supported my mental well-being so I can more easily do what I’m here to do.
- Kristin Neff: The Power of Self-compassion
Kristin is an expert on turning self-judgment to self-compassion. And her talk helps you start to shift too. (She also explains the problem with a focus on building self-esteem.) - Brene Brown: Listening to Shame
She opens with an entertaining look at what every introvert can relate to: the hangover from too much visibility. Enjoy this speaker/researcher/author/introvert describe what it all means. - Guy Winch: How to turn off work thoughts in your free time
I love his take on rumination, what it is, and what to do about it. Hmm, I should probably listen to this again. Overthinking is one of those ongoing challenges for introverts and HSPs.
3) Making a Difference in Our Own Way
These speakers describe how we can tap our natural strengths, sense of purpose, and our caring hearts to make a difference in ways that feel right to us.
- Sarah Corbett: Activism Needs Introverts (13:48)
I like how she thinks. Creative ideas for introverts who want to make a difference in a quieter way. - Ruby Maddox: How We Connect to Our Highest Purpose (11:52)
Ruby is a fellow introvert who lives near me, and I’m such a fan of what she’s up to. I love her focus on living your purpose. (I profiled Ruby on my blog: Inspiring Introvert: Meet Ruby Maddox, Living Her Purpose, with Balance.) - Valarie Kaur: Revolutionary Love in a Time of Rage
A lawyer and activist, she describes how she came to see love as a force for social justice and 3 lessons for how to do it. And it’s not by suppressing our own anger and fear.
