Radical gratitude | Jana Shelfer | TEDxEustis

Paralyzed at fifteen, Jana Shelfer developed a gratitude practice as a tool to deal with the challenges that she faced. But circumstances tested that practice, leading her to evolve an advanced form of "radical gratitude" that anyone can use to adjust to their circumstances and reset into a positive mindset. Jana Shelfer is a three-time Paralympian, winning Gold & Bronze medals as a member of the United States wheelchair basketball team. A champion of overcoming obstacles, Jana also competed in the Kansas Junior Miss pageant as the first contestant in a wheelchair... and won!
For 12 years, Shelfer was a well-known Central Florida media personality, Jana Banana, entertaining and helping radio listeners navigate the challenge of life using fun and humor.
An ambassador for Chair the Love, she has traveled the world with the non-profit organization that has shared the gift of mobility with thousands around the globe.
Today, Jana is living lucky by inspiring, education, and coaching audiences and clients around the world on how to conquer life's biggest limitations: our thoughts and beliefs. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@marisolroman0-0]

Even in the darkest of places there are things to be grateful for if you're willing to look.

[@lannydaslin]

Biggest take home message is to shift your focus to what you have rather than what you don't. Amen to that.

[@ProOneBetterThanProTwo]

I think this story shows how setbacks can actually be setups for something greater, and that's such an empowering way to look at life's challenges.

[@ListHeist]

Jana's journey makes me realize that gratitude isn't just about being thankful-it's about seeing the potential for growth in every situation.

[@JasonShelfer]

Yes 🙌🏻! Thank you. Thank you for watching and the insightful comment

[@roscojustrosco]

I've always struggled with staying positive during tough times, but Jana's approach of radical gratitude seems like it could really make a difference.

[@kathywinter]

Jana's journey reminds me to stop and consider: What am I grateful for today, even in the midst of challenges?

[@toughtimesneverlast]

It's amazing what being forced to compromise our livelihood will do - all of the sudden we are grateful for any moment where fear is not the driver...

[@adagunesesq]

I appreciated Jana asking, "how lucky are you?" It gave me a chance to reflect on all the good in my life, everything I was grateful for.

[@woodychuck]

Thumbs up Jana to "Life is always working in our favour". With a mindset like that life is always good.

[@nathanclendle]

I think it's amazing how her experience with radical gratitude helped her turn her life around and achieve so much.

[@shimmikang]

Jana banana's resilience is truly inspiring! Despite the challenges she faced, she never gave up on her dreams and achieved remarkable success.... I think this story is a wonderful reminder that, with the right attitude we have the power to overcome obstacles and turn them into opportunities.

[@archiegoodale]

I've never thought of gratitude in terms of adversity until now. It's a fresh perspective that could be life-changing. Thank you Jana.

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you all so much for watching AND COMMENTING on my TEDx. Make sure to SHARE it with friends and encourage them to comment as well. Gratitude runs deeper than any wound if you make room for the healing.

[@yoghurt-cup]

It's incredible how a simple shift in perception can lead to personal growth and success. We should all strive to find that silver lining, even if it's not easy.

[@davidw5179]

I miss hearing Jana every day. So great to her in her element.

[@JasonShelfer]

Thanks David. We both really appreciate you engaging and letting us know you were here ❤

[@IAmZictate]

It's interesting how Jana's encounter with the elephants played a pivotal role in her transformation. I've had similar moments of clarity, it's amazing how powerful they can be.

[@UnforgivingSpleen]

I love Janas ability to shift her perception and find gratitude despite all the adversity she has faced. Just shows how powerful a positive mindset truly is.

[@luna-marco]

Jana's story really emphasises the importance of gratitude and its impact on one's life.... It's incredible to see how a simple shift in perception can lead to such profound personal growth and success. Her journey serves as a reminder to be grateful for both the highs and lows in life.

[@TheCookieAngel]

I can't imagine how tough it must have been for Jana, but her ability to find gratitude in the midst of adversity is remarkable.

[@JasonShelfer]

It too a lot of work sometimes. We've tested the tires on some rough road, so to speak. Thank you for the comment. In a 15 minute TEDx, it may look like it was just a flippant decision to start being positive. It was a HUGE investment in time, money, energy, and people to get to where we are today. Our depression lasted 2 years (from when we recognized it) and she did not leave the house and barely got out of bed. That was the most recent darkness. It gets a little "gray" building your own speaking and coaching career, but the recognition of the power to focus on possibilities and the things we can control and keeping an open mind with an optimistic outlook is a way to build the mountain instead of get buried by it. Thank you so much for your comment. Keep Living Lucky. 😇

[@alexBBmichaels]

I've always thought of myself as a sock you find in the depths of the dryer - finding my match isn't everything. Jana reminded me that it is really about the journey, so matter how unexpected it might be.

[@xavierilorenzo]

I love her ability to find gratitude in every situation, it's pretty damn inspiring. It's like a masterclass in personal growth and resilience!

[@stephZandrews]

very impressed with this woman's attitude towards her injury

[@bcacres9837]

Jana's ability to find gratitude even in the darkest moments is truly remarkable and her story isa testament to the transformative power of gratitude. I'm grateful my suggested videos brought me here!

[@lilygrander]

Jana, you're such a pleasure to listen to and watch. I am so grateful I came across your talk today!!

[@1henrythomas]

Her energy is something I need in my life!!!

[@reverendkenneth]

Real Radio has never been the same since you left and I miss seeing my friend, Jana Banana. I was so lucky to have listened to you for so many years and getting to know you and Jason. You helped to change my perspective of life and I always look for the positive in life now. Thank You.

[@sylzoor4183]

Jana's story is like a masterpiece, blending the bright hues of resilience with the darker shades of adversity. It's a canvas of radical gratitude that invites us all to paint our lives with positivity.

[@JasonShelfer]

Beautiful comment. Thank you... from both of us.

[@iamlaylathomas]

Her shift from focusing on what she lost to appreciating what she has is a powerful lesson.

[@imnotq5509]

I think her opening story is so cute and also a _very_ good example of the point she's trying to get across.

[@iamtherealyesman]

The way Jana reframed her challenges as opportunities for growth is really incredible. Like it's such an amazing mindset to have

[@rangatvespaldy]

I can relate to Jana's struggle with feeling stuck and unfulfilled. Her talk makes me wonder if gratitude could be the key to breaking free.

[@SleepWalkerSwag]

I've heard about the power of gratitude before, but Jana's talk takes it to a whole new level.

[@iamcomediam]

I'm taking Jana's words to heart, turning my setbacks into stepping stones. Life's symphony plays both high notes and low, but now I'm dancing to its rhythm.

[@JasonShelfer]

❤💥🎹🙌❤💥🎹🙌❤

[@albinachatton4390]

While finding gratitude can be beneficial, it's important to address and seek help for mental health issues such as depression. It's not always as simple as just being grateful, and professional support may be necessary to overcome such challenges.

[@susanpqpowell]

Adversity is your advantage, thats strong!

[@markandersen2500]

Thank you for the reminder that even in adversity there is something to be thankful for.

[@JasonShelfer]

Mark, thanks for the support and for engaging with a comment. That “little bit extra” to let someone know that “we hear you and we can use this” or “thanks for the reminder” goes a long way. Really appreciate you.

[@pengzhou6952]

I love Jana banana's story! Such a powerful example of the resilience of the human spirit. She faced immense challenges but never let them define her, I can't imagine how difficult that would be and yet she makes it sound so easy.

[@Techodeflash]

People ask us to develop empathy for others by walking a mile in their shoes, I can't imagine her pain when she realised she was paralysed.

[@rivanasingh2365]

This is one of the best Ted talks I've seen. What a phenomenal woman

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@realdelilahjones]

I loved the opening story of her mom calling her Janna banana and everyone remembering that the next day.

[@lannydaslin]

Yeah super cute ❤❤

[@jabajaba7488]

I loved that she was upset about it to begin with. How seriously she must have been taking herself at the age of 5 is admirable.

[@realdelilahjones]

@@jabajaba7488 Lol I hadn't thought of it like that

[@kreslfamily]

Jana, this is Stephanie Kresl, and I serve with the Jason on the Student Ministry at Lakeside. You have blessed me more than you know! I know this was a divine appointment for me to watch your TED talk at this exact moment in life and I am so grateful that I came across this! I hope to connect with you more in the near future! Thank you for your perspective and for sharing your heart. 💕

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you 🙏 so much for this heartfelt comment, Stephanie. I can’t wait for Jana to see it. ❤

[@aspennotcolorado]

Not sure what a feature baton twirler is but from the smile on Jana's face it's clearly something she values and that's lovely!

[@basilfaulty7643]

Yes, I have to give it to her, that positive mindset is definitely something to admire. But let's not forget that not everyone can handle challenges in the same way. We all have different strengths and ways of coping.

[@mike-good-ames]

I think this is a wonderful example of how our perception of circumstances can shape our reality. We get to choose how to feel about things and the decisions Jana has made are very inspiring.

[@laurenehirschberg5444]

How lucky am I? This is such a powerful and perspective changing question. Thank you Jana for this question. When I want to reach a goal or make a change in my life I ask the questions “what gets to happen when I finish my home renovation?” This helps me keep my focus moving forward. But now I can use this same question for challenging circumstances, people and mindsets in my life. “What gets to happen now that I’m procrastinating on taking the next steps to grow my business?”

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much for watching, sharing, and engaging.

[@ruthbenaim2788]

Very inspirational.

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you so much, Ruth.

[@iamluckybob]

Oh Jana I love this talk! Yes, there's always going to be good and bad things happening in life and by practicing radical gratitude we make it easier on ourselves to find those silver linings! Just lovely, thank you

[@kathleenstump]

That was absolutely amazing……I cried, laughed, smiled with elation….and was star struck through the whole presentation….it was truly from the heart……wonderful, wonderful…..so proud of this outstanding accomplishment…..

[@StartLivingLucky]

❤️ ❤️ ❤️

[@chinadiggs543]

it's not a magical cure for everything. Some situations require more than just positive thinking and actual action, when sometimes can take a lot more than just gratitude.

[@JasonShelfer]

What if it is the magical cure for everything?

[@StartLivingLucky]

I feel so lucky…🙏🏻

[@chriscolvin5603]

So much energy! And so on point!

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much for your comment.

[@deannatalley-ed5jo]

I met Jana and Jason at an Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Breakfast. We shared a table and we shared stories. We continued to communicate via Facebook, and I’ve loved following their adventures! Jana, your TEDxEustis talk on Radical Gratitude is what I needed to hear tonight. Thank you, Jana! Love you!

[@JasonShelfer]

Deanna, Thank you for this comment. I would love to go back through journals to try to see how often that conversation and meeting popped up in a gratitude list. People are put in our paths for a reason. The world truly is a small magnificent place. Until we meet again... ❤❤❤

[@deannatalley-ed5jo]

It’s so true and it’s a blessing!

[@davidogden2996]

Be inspired, or be inspiring. Awesome job Jana. I remember you from the Philips Files on radio. And now through your awesome husband Jason. Keep rolling on. God bless.

[@JasonShelfer]

Thanks for having our 6 and for all you do in the community. You comment and support means the world.

[@APArshah11]

Wow… thank you for sharing your lucky journey with such honesty and invencibility!

[@tamarawebster6611]

Thank you for your transparency and vulnerability and for the reminder to look for the blessings in EVERY circumstance. ❤

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you so much for your support and comment. 😊

[@fantastic.shoppingaddict]

the reminder that the lows as well as the highs are a part of the process is humbling. i would love to hear more experiences on how this approach affects our overall well-being?

[@inurtureme]

Thank you Jana Banana that was wonderful

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you for the encouragement, support, and the comments❤🎉

[@jeanettehuizenga6765]

Jana Banana is an amazing speaker. I love her vulnerability and positivity. This talk does not disappoint. I left feeling inspired, grateful, and most importantly I realized I am living lucky!

[@JasonShelfer]

Whoot Whoot

[@phyllishack]

Yes, her vulnerability is so endearing and makes it easy to connect.

[@secilywilson2502]

Gratitude makes what you have ENOUGH! Thank you Jana for sharing, inspiring and being a true example of living life on purpose!! YOU ROCK!!!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤❤

[@StartLivingLucky]

❤️ ❤️ ♥️

[@jeffersonnoel4756]

This talk was sooo heartwarming. I'm on the brink of tears every time I hear your story. Thank you for being strong and humble and loving of yourself and others.

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@shelleystinson9745]

I finally got a chance to sit down and watch the whole thing - amazing Jana Banana! You are a true inspiration for us all! Keep living lucky!

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you for so much, Shelley. I make a conscious decision every day keep Living Lucky. Hopefully we can keep helping others do the same. Thank YOU for all you do.

[@kateyyeats6532]

What a fantastic talk Jana Banana! Love every second of it. You got real with what all you went through. Thanks for sharing.

[@marcybaumann8547]

This turned and twisted in a way that let down my guard and let me hear precisely what I needed. Thank you so much for your words..

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@sheilakendrick3464]

Jana you and Jason have changed my life for the better. I'm so proud of you and to have been a part of this ride.

[@StartLivingLucky]

❤️ 😃 ❤️

[@space2shine]

Thank you Jana for sharing with us the many facets of Gratitude. You are an incredible speaker and an inspiration to so many. I am better for having listened to this talk. I appreciate you greatly.

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤ ❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@livingsamiam282]

Jana Banana is beautiful and inspiring. To radical gratitude and Living Lucky! L.iving U.nder C.hrist's K.indness. ❤️

[@JasonShelfer]

Love it. Thank you Sam

[@t-bonebranson]

Honestly this talk is like a breath of fresh air. Really puts things in perspective, Jana, thank you.

[@JasonShelfer]

❤

[@Tbow9999]

As a friend at my Iron Man of God table i know Jason and have never met his beautiful wife and hope to one day what a message this woman is full of energy and inspiration God bless her and Jason.

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much Tony

[@RobinJollieRichter]

Love, love, love from your TEDxEustis family! xoxo GREAT TALK!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤

[@TSINGER70]

You are AMAZING Jana! Such an inspiration to so many. Keep doing what you are doing.

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@lauriesjostrom9226]

Jason, thanks for sharing this with your coaching community... you have given me access to a useful tool to use with my clients. Janna, what I loved about your story is that you overcame massive adversity twice (and rose to so many other challenges- as an athlete, radio personality, and wife) Challenges are given to us so we can grow...

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@cathygamble8609]

So much love to you! I have MS, and I have a similar outlook! It's taken me 50 years, but always look for the good. It's there!

[@Sellingwithdignity]

Jana Shelfer’s story about living lucky is truly inspiring. I think I will think a bit more about gratitude today. Thank you Jana! Keep inspiring!

[@livingsuccessfullywithdisa7840]

Our Community is stronger because of contributions like this, thank you.

[@JasonShelfer]

What a powerful comment. Thank You so much for the encouragement and motivation to keep going. You provide such a massive platform and space for engagement with, understanding, and Living Successfully with disabilities and we appreciate you SO MUCH.

[@livingsuccessfullywithdisa7840]

@@JasonShelfer ❤

[@ClassCBroads]

What a great story and lesson! For what it’s worth, I always remember admiring you, even when I was pretty cocky high schooler and you were still a Junior Buff. There you were…this spunky little point guard who could beat about anyone in a free throw or dribbling contest. “Watch out for this one,” I would think to myself (and then I would hit the gym for fear of some little kid besting me 😊). Somehow though, we all sorta knew back then that this little 8th grader was going change lives, even if we didn’t know exactly the path she would take. I think that some people are just meant to be leaders and role models, no matter their circumstances. You are indeed one of the inspiring lucky ones. Thank you for sharing your story. ~ Lana

[@JasonShelfer]

Well, this got me. Thank you for such an impactful comment that a husband can really tuck into his heart file for reference on days when a spouse ask, “Am I making a difference?”

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@jacquimeeks9932]

Jana Banana! You are incredible and an inspiration to us all. Thank you for your beautiful message and inspiring words. How lucky am I to hear this lovely message! Life is always working in our favour!

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you, Jacqui. Life IS always working in our favor. Jana will love seeing a comment from such a powerful business coach.

[@kathleenstump]

Thank you for being you! Jerry Stump

[@elissazachary3790]

The story of the elephant encounter is so profound. It's fascinating how a single moment can trigger such a transformative shift.

[@StartLivingLucky]

I wish I could bottle it. I feel like we're close🤣when I hear my husband's clients talk about some of their insights, or we get emails from people who are chasing their dreams again. Thank you for this comment. It really sparked a flutter of joy and gratitude. A twitch of the elephant ear for me. Bless you.

[@angelabushman3473]

Love this, Jana Banana - gratitude changed my life, as well, and that’s why it’s central to my coaching practice!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤❤

[@leodancingsanders]

I appreciated Jana asking, "how lucky are you?" It gave me a chance to reflect on all the good in my life, everything I was grateful for. Thanks Jana

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you Leo So grateful you took the extra step to leave a comment after watching.

[@lannydaslin]

Same! Not something I do often enough I think

[@jeffbedenbaugh8086]

Thanks for sharing your story. Life's greatest lessons come with dollar signs or scars. What you do with those lessons is what matters, and sharing yours - matters.

[@sustainablehappinesstogether]

Beautiful and inspiring talk! Great and empowering lessons to be learned from Jana “Banana”! She is able to share with us how to see the many gifts that are given out of challenges. Thank you Jana!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤❤

[@annabellebaldasari]

What an inspiring story! Made me cry and left a positive impression. Thank you Jana Banana! You rock, girl!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤

[@pattiferry7949]

Beautiful!!

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment ❤❤

[@BrookeLochore-eg6qv]

Very inspiring Jana Banana, well done

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤❤ Thank you so much, B

[@JonathanHenry-bt1ql]

This is absolutely amazing

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you so much !!!

[@slaytonfitts4572]

Wonderful talk and even better perspective! Truly inspirational!

[@JasonShelfer]

Hey Slayton. Thanks so much for the comment and engagement.

[@JasonShelfer]

Amazing ❤ I’ve got a whole new perspective on gratitude

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you 😊

[@ashleymaas3560]

This is awesome! I love her energy so much! YES GIRL!

[@StartLivingLucky]

❤️ ❤️ ❤️

[@coachwilliamjoseph6366]

Great job speaking! Super love your message. “We have the power and ability to perceive the situation” whether good or bad. I love the heart of gratitude.

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).

[@Dollspell]

"Life is always working in our favour". I'm happy to debate the "always" part of that.

[@jabajaba7488]

It is if you take advantage of the opportunities it presents.

[@deniseevans4130]

Love, Love, Love this! So inspiring! A must see for everyone! So Powerful!

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much Denise. We miss you both

[@sheilakendrick2488]

Jana changed my life. She is my inspiration

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you so much Sheila. We love you and value our relationships with you❣

[@guntherhofer]

There's always someone worse off than you and often you don't have to look far to find them.

[@chrishenry6900]

Love it! Great talk Jana!

[@StartLivingLucky]

Thank you, Chris. I appreciate all the support and encouragement.

[@aleshasanders3730]

Your inspirational to so many women!!!!

[@StartLivingLucky]

❤❤❤ Thank you so much for your comment and encouragement.

[@robjacobson7764]

Thank you Jana for courageously and vulnerably sharing your story. You are inspiring a generation to transform our perspective.

[@JasonShelfer]

Thank you Rob.

[@phyllishack]

Oh wow Jana I was not prepared to feel the emotions that your words prompted towards the end there. I know that feeling, of being grateful for the dark times. I'm glad you were able to derive such profound meaning from them. 🙏🏻🙏🏻💙💙

[@hannahyvictoria]

While gratitude can be beneficial, it's not a cure-all for life's challenges. Some situations are genuinely difficult and require more than just a positive mindset. It's important to address and seek support for the underlying issues rather than solely relying on gratitude.

[@JasonShelfer]

Gratitude IS beneficial. I don't see it necessarily as a "positive mindset", but as an assessment of what are is available to work with, or what is being provided to use at a future date in the way of experience or lesson. Don''t throw away the whole toolbox just because someone mentions a Leatherman Skeletool

[@joycewietrecki2167]

Jana, I love your speech. It is so inspirational!! You help us use Radical Gratitude. You’re speaking my language! ❤️

[@JasonShelfer]

❤❤ Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Please share freely and hopefully it gives a friend or family member some new tools and perspective on gratitude, persistence, and becoming invinc(able).❤❤