My Preparation Process

For me, just doing the application was a challenge. The way to be invited to do a TEDx talk was by having one idea worth spreading. The goal was to find that one nugget within all that I teach that is specific enough to make a difference. People who hear a general speech on happiness find it hard to relate the information to themselves. They want to know you are speaking to them. I had to find that one notion close to my heart – an important concept –that would make a specific difference to specific people. This is how I came to my idea: Kids Who Do Chores Have Less Stress.

After my invitation, the work began to craft a very short talk that could impact people and make them want to share it with others, to impact more. If you asked me to teach in a room for two hours, I can walk in and start without preparing. But to shrink it to one idea in ten minutes is a considerable challenge. I wasn’t scared of that challenge but knew I needed more introspection, writing, education, and guidance to accomplish it.

Quite a Chore!

I read several books on TEDx talks, consulted many videos - some TEDx, some on presentation style - hired a coach, consulted the TEDxWilmington team, and got to work.

As a psychotherapist, my mission is to help people heal from emotional stress. This insider’s view gives me insight into how people interact with the world, why they do what they do, and why they feel what they feel. I am grateful that people invite me to hear their thoughts. Also, as a mom, I see the interface of the world and my kids from a front-row seat. Because I am interested in raising my kids to be emotionally well, I’ve paid close attention to everything happening.

This is what I see:

Anxiety is a pandemic!

It is a travesty that there is an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression among teenagers, and I decided to disclose what is at the bottom of it. Once we know, parents like me can take action to stop them from going down that path. Alternatively, we can guide them to switch their directions if they are already down there. Kids who have less stress and anxiety are more confident, successful, independent, and happy.

Yes, there are a lot of TEDx talks on Anxiety, but there is room for more!

In my talk, I share why kids’ anxiety is increasing and what is an important thing you can do to stop it.

Please let me know what you think and if you see any challenges to this approach. Also, kindly share this one. I can spread this idea farther with your help!