View the TEDTalk “My Philosophy for a Happy Life”Links to an external site. by Sam Berns (TEDx, 2013). Respond to the following questions:
- What are your impressions of his talk?
- Did his talk give you any new perspective on the process or skill of communication?
- How does Berns’ perspective on life influence his communication competence?
Be sure to respond to others. As a note, aim for full credit and connect to a scholarly source beyond the TED Talk to show how the discussion ties to your studies in the course.
Reference
TEDx. (2013). My philosophy for a happy life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36m1o-tM05g
Sam Berns’ TED Talk, “My Philosophy for a Happy Life,” is both inspiring and impactful. Despite his diagnosis with Progeria, a rare genetic condition causing premature aging, Berns exudes an infectious optimism and demonstrates remarkable wisdom for his age. His resilience and positive outlook are truly motivational, presenting a powerful narrative on how to lead a joyful and meaningful life regardless of circumstances.
Berns’ talk also provides a fresh perspective on communication skills. He effectively uses his personal experiences to connect with the audience, making his message relatable and persuasive. This approach underlines the importance of authenticity and emotional connection in communication, demonstrating that how we share our stories can significantly influence our ability to connect with others.
Moreover, Berns’ philosophy on life directly enhances his communication competence. His focus on being okay with what he ultimately can’t do, while concentrating on what he can influence, showcases a high level of emotional intelligence. This attitude helps him communicate effectively as he chooses positivity and proactive engagement over dwelling on limitations. His ability to articulate this perspective not only strengthens his messages but also increases his credibility and the emotional impact on his audience.
Connecting Berns’ approach to scholarly perspectives on communication, his technique aligns with concepts of emotional intelligence and self-awareness, which are crucial for effective interpersonal communication. According to Goleman’s model of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and self-regulation are foundational to developing social skills and empathy (Goleman, 1995). Berns demonstrates these competencies by managing his emotions and expressing himself in ways that resonate deeply with his audience, thus enhancing his communication effectiveness.
In conclusion, Sam Berns’ TED Talk is a profound reminder of the power of perspective and the importance of communication skills in sharing our personal narratives. His approach not only enriches his own life but also offers valuable lessons on how to engage with the world meaningfully and compassionately.
Reference: Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence. Bantam Books.