From new takes on psychology to honing creativity to how to tie your shoes better, TED Talks run the gamut of information, which makes some much more valuable than others. But there are a handful of TED Talks that seem specially designed for the modern man, offering valuable nuggets of info and insight on issues like masculinity, fear, and how to be happy in today’s society.
Rather than sift through a never-ending list of TED Talks to find the most relevant ones for you, check out these not-to-be-missed talks that will surely leave you a better man than you were before you watched them.
Tony Porter – A Call to Men
Educator and activist, Tony Porter, ironically gave his groundbreaking man-centered talk at TEDWomen. During his speech, he invites men to think differently about what it means to “act like a man.” Through compelling personal anecdotes, Porter paints the picture of how men are socially conditioned to devalue and objectify women. He examines the ramifications of this, both for women and for men, and discusses how a change in perspective and approach can truly make the world a better place.
Shawn Achor – The Happy Secret to Better Work
In our productivity-obsessed culture, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that more work means more money, which means more happiness. But in his talk, Shawn Achor, the CEO of Good Think, argues that anyone who thinks that way is doing it backward. Through a series of funny stories paired with interesting data and research, this fast-moving speech makes a strong case for how much easier it is for us to be productive when we’re happy. If you’re ready to be more productive and positive, then you need this talk in your life.
Tim Ferriss – Smash Fear, Learn Anything
Best-selling author, investor, and professional fear-crusher, Tim Ferriss, examines fear and the way the false narratives we tell ourselves hold us back from accomplishing our goals. In his engaging talk, Ferriss argues that false constructs and untested assumptions are the roots of our biggest fears and the best way to combat that is to learn everything you can about whatever you’re afraid of. He also poses the question: “Whats the worst that could happen?” and posits that that’s the only question we need to conquer our deepest fears.
Jackson Katz – Violence Against Women—It’s a Men’s Issue
If you and the men you know are generally considered good men who’d never intentionally hurt a woman, it’s easy to peg violence against women as another person’s issue; not yours. But anti-sexism educator, Jackson Katz, feels differently. In his moving talk, he digs into the idea that domestic violence and sexual abuse aren’t women’s issues; they’re men’s issues. He discusses the ways that violent behaviors are intrinsically linked to manhood and addresses how to combat that to create a safer world for men and women alike.
Brene Brown – The Power of Vulnerability
Our culture has a tendency to view vulnerability has some sort of weakness or personal shortcoming, especially as it pertains to men. But in her powerful talk, Brene Brown, through hard data and relatable anecdotes, demonstrates that vulnerability is one of the greatest strengths we have as humans. She delves into the ways vulnerability can make you a stronger and more powerful person, as well as how tapping into it can improve your work performance, your personal relationships, and how you feel each day.
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