Conquering Fear | Geoff Thompson | TEDxLeamingtonSpa

How Geoff Thompson went from sweeping floors in a factory to winning a BAFTA, and the many fears he faced along the way.
Geoff has written forty books, published in 21 languages. He is also the author of hundreds of articles appearing in national magazines and broadsheets, including The Times, GQ and FHM. He is also an award-winning playwright and screenwriter, including BAFTA-award-winning “Brown Paper Bag”. His work has been featured in 32 international film festivals. Geoff is also an internationally-recognised martial artist and has been called “The most influential martial artist in the world since Bruce Lee” by Black Belt Magazine USA.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@oneparthippieoneparthoolig5776]

Back in the 90s, when Geoff was a huge name in martial arts, he received a lot of bad press for his teaching methods which were based in reality and therefore were not kind or pretty. I wrote to Geoff, via his book selling company to say that I looked at him as a hero. That all the bad press he was receiving was due to people not really understanding real violence and what he was trying to do. A couple of months passed and I got a parcel in the post. In it was a letter from Geoff, handwritten, thanking me for my letter, offering me some advice and complimenting me on my perceptive attitude. He had enclosed a copy of his book Real Self Defence as what he called an “early Christmas present”. To this day I treasure both. Wonderful human being.

[@alexandermay5951]

Same here - he replied to a note in the early 2000s as well as fairly recently. A great guy 👍

[@arohnr]

When I feel my anxiety getting intense, Geoff's voice plays in my head now. "Lean into the sharp edges. Embrace the fear. Marinate in your terror." It yells louder than my anxiety. I never thought I'd get this far. Let others be the hope and proof that you can do it, too 💙

[@7Earthsky]

''I was afraid to admit i was afraid''........This is a huge insight for men especially to accept.

[@kevinhalls2301]

I've known Geoff for some time as I was brought up in the same area of Coventry as him. And saw him on the doors of pubs and clubs in the city many times. Back then Coventry was a really violent place, especially in town at the weekends and you had to have your wits about you so to speak. But it's great that Geoff has gone on from being a bouncer, and is now a top writer and playwright. He has inspired me in my own writing as I'm now a published football writer and poet, after spending time in prison and going off the rails. I have total respect for Geoff as he has shown that no matter your background, you can achieve so much if you persevere and keep on moving forward. Thanks Geoff from a fellow Cov Kid !

[@ronallport1897]

Kevin that is very inspiring to hear .. We all have our own journey of overcoming fear but we are all connected by the same thread . Keep going my friend 🙂

[@nightwolf1592]

A true living legend. Martial artist, self defence innovator, writer, thinker, philosopher and a very humble man.

[@davemears8272]

I'm very proud to say I know Geoff personally and he is a great mentor of mine. I was a guest instructor on Geoff's self-protection seminars. I was a very timid, bullied kid, who was afraid of his own shadow. I went on to become a world-class martial artist, a feared nightclub bouncer, and a personal protection instructor, respected by some of the world's greatest champions, and experts. I then became a popular Thailand nightlife reporter and photographer, with a cult following on my website and on my Dave The Rave Bangkok social media. The similarity in our life stories is remarkable. My story is this - From Wimp To Warrior!

[@byslyrten]

I am here again years later. Still feeling how great speech it is.

[@styleyK]

I have tears in my eyes. I have my own fear pyramid to takle and I know it won't be easy, but I will over come. Thank you Geoff

[@Godshonestruth]

Get it brother

[@philpreston6406]

Geoff Thompson.........What an amazing man. His wisdom is so inspiring. Just today, had 3 of his books, delivered to my door.

[@mahonrimoriancumer9932]

really like this guy. He didn't create a talk from a bunch of quotes from books but speaking right from the heart and experience how he actually overcame his fears.

[@topsysdad1]

This man is one of the kindest most genuine people ive ever met. He practices what he preaches, he continues to inspire me through his life story and writing. Great Ted talk from a great man.

[@kevinlewis3029]

I watched alot of talks on fear but this one got to me, I've spend the best part of my 40 year life in a state of fear and can relate to so much of what your saying. Fear/anxiety/depression is a running theme in my family I hope to break this cycle for myself and for the sake of my children. Keep up the good work Geoff thanks for sharing your stories and your courage.

[@rhondapelletier2141]

Me too!!!! Same exact story, my MISSION is to Break the cycle of Anxiety...... wasted decades in UNNECESSARY Suffering ❤️🙏..... this is MY YEAR to break free...( thank god for KZbin vids!)........ Trusting yourself in Life’s uncertainty is what will free us!❤️

[@adrianlydiate7197]

Jesus that was powerful , well done that man, I had tears in my eyes at the end

[@OAitchison]

I already looked up to Geoff Thompson for his insightful books on violence and self protection, but this video makes him a hero in my eyes.

[@kirkusarelius3365]

Couldn’t have said it any better 👍

[@pnswindowcleaning6557]

I'm lost for words......this is the man that helped to change my life! through his teachings in his books I completely changed from what I once was to what I am today. I have never met him but I feel as if I know him. its been so long since I have heard anything from him and to see this tonight has bought it all back. I would love to shake his hand just once for what he taught me. Geoff if you read this...thank you.

[@alanpower8234]

sitting here in the library in tears. what a guy bless you Geoff.

[@JosephenKys]

his happinest in last seconds is just inspiring

[@iamjazsue]

Geoff, thank you for the remarkable insight and bless your courage to share this with the world. Watching this has brought a profound sense of calm and clarity amidst the chaos of overcoming fears as a survivor. 🙏🙏

[@mkkravist11]

This man is simply phenomenal. What he's come through. And not an autocue in sight. Intelligent, funny & heartbreaking. He doesn't seem like a person that sets out to hurt anyone - I'm sure he's regretful of all the people that have had to pay a hard price at his hands for what he was going through.

[@Greyman010]

He was abused by his aikido instructor at 11 but carried on practing all types of martial arts and done very well in competition. Even though he could fight in the ring he was still afraid of violent confrontation. He did become too hypersensitive to violence and imagined threat every where. He teaches self defence as well. I’v read his book watch my back. Love his work.

[@BalkanShipyards]

This speech, this bravery, speaking about ones weaknesses... is proof that every word Geoff said was TRUE! Very Powerful. The Force is Strong with U Geoff

[@underdogunchained]

What a legend Geoff is. He provides fuel for the soul.

[@simonhornby7397]

I have read many of Geoffs books but never seen him presenting to an audience, He is a real life inspiration who inspires through his own experiences

[@michaelegan86]

I strongly recommend reading Geoff's book "Fear-the friend of exceptional people". I was a victim of crime (attacked twice) and was living my life in fear on a daily basis. Like Geoff, I got fed up of living in fear all the time, so I bought his book and it inspired me to overcome some of my fears. Changed my life on so many levels.

[@juliegathman2923]

One of the best TED talks I've seen! I clapped at the end, I couldn't help it.

[@doomsday8739]

Wow! Forgiving a person who hurt you sexually takes phenomenal courage. I really admire that, Geoff. I haven't done that for a group of gay "friends" who sexually harrassed me in high school yet, and that's minor compared to sexual abuse. Great speech. It gave me the will to start my journey of forgiveness.

[@MrHDGH]

Wow! Geoff allways delivers! Such an amazing person. I feel blessed to have read his books and consumed his message for the last 14years. All the best to you Geoff!

[@jennyrowan7340]

BEAUTIFUL. i totally cried, he described the emotions so accurately.

[@MoHarford]

OUTSTANDING a must see TEDx. What could this world be like if everyone did that. Thanks TEDx Leamington Spa

[@jameswalshaw4034]

You are a true warrior. Courage over fear. Inspirational Geoff Thompson.

[@rodgerhempfing2921]

I have met some of my high school bullies. They have got nowhere in life. Happiness is the best revenge.

[@bagoglass1]

An example of excellence on so many levels.

[@jcaterracing]

I've met Geoff a few times now at talks, and I can honestly say he's been a massive inspiration in my life, and I use a lot of his techniques from martial arts to overcoming fears every day of my life. He's also a very likeable and humble man, and I love seeing where his journey has taken him, and where it will in the future. It's good to finally have something I can share to those I know, rather than trying to fumble my way through his words and just getting funny looks!

[@marcholmes9437]

Thank you so much Geoff

[@daniel7rusuu]

This is the best TED talk I've ever seen. Rarely is something life changing for me, but this is. Thanks Geoff.

[@blue0eyes0knight]

Incredible Geoff, well done. I have been following you work for over 15 years but this talk proves you are more than just a world leader in self protection.

[@0Gmvn]

one of my favorite human beings ive ever learned from...i hope to meet him someday.

[@sugarpump]

Just listened to 3 TED Talks on fear....... The Best of them right here!

[@LB-gr5se]

What are the others? Thanks

[@mramos5178]

Wow we had absolutely no obligation to share something so personal and in such a raw way but he chose to. This talk was so incredibly inspiring, thank you!

[@Sir-zl2nq]

changed my life geoffs advice has, or rather - the advice that comes through him! ❤

[@johnatkin1]

this makes me cry ! amazing big love Geoff from your friend John xxx

[@Lucypearla]

Wow this gave me goosebumps. Best TED talk I’ve seen. I’m new to discovering Geoff Thompson, so glad I have. The man is an inspiration.

[@nickynick11111]

Thank you for sharing the truth! You don't know how much your words have helped me today! May God bless you!

[@richardmunn22]

Beautiful and powerful talk by Geoff

[@rosswilliams21]

Truly an amazing man who delivers a mesage that hits home for so many people such an inspiration

[@dansmith1743]

Very inspirational. He communicated so well - fear.What it is to him. How he found inspiration to come to terms with it

[@dannysiladji]

Thank you mate, you are a great man & the great inspiration 🤜🤛

[@rizzamaeong]

oh my god! this is one of the most amazing Tedx Talk ever.

[@johnwill8467]

A deep-dive into something we all carry with us , from the day we are born until the day we take our last breath ... fear. Wonderful lesson from a man who has walked his own path - and emerged an authentic human being.

[@martinneville8534]

Best speech I have ever heard, thank you Geoff.

[@shovelhead4558]

Bless you Geoff sharing your inner self helping others to control their fear

[@macrovigilance]

Top of the pyramid for most powerful video's in the KZbin database! Utter respect to Geoff.

[@1927bluesrob]

Thanks Geoff, your courage is a real inspiration and also a massive help on my own journey. This talk is pure gold.

[@mohammedshabir7119]

The amazing Geoff Thompson. I’ve only just accidentally come across this talk.

[@truemanc]

I've read a couple of Geoff's books. Brilliant.

[@MM-se7eu]

Thank You Geoff. I know I have to forgive my brother. From your talk I am finally convinced...Thanks!

[@144Donn]

I just found Geoff yesterday from an interview he recently did. He is a GREAT man and an amazing teacher. He is my new Master!

[@jaysantos1732]

Geoff is one of those messenger that come in and out our planet, a healing source.

[@arma4744]

Mr. Thompson, thank you for sharing this with the world. Was certainly not easy, I admire your courage. There is a lot to learn from. Your teachings are helping me a lot in self-defense and life. You are changing lives for good and for that, I thank you with all my heart. Respect! Oss!

[@nikolepetratou-wells7694]

what an amazing man.

[@Plato76...]

Thank you Geoff

[@KeithMiddleton01]

This morning I was bombarded with fears and was at my lowest point stuck on a mountain to frightened to go up to frightened to go down to frightened to stay where I was after watching Geoff's video I have crushed some of my fears and feel a lot better now I can face tomorrow's fears, Great stuff Geoff

[@tigu2012]

Abandonment is my worst fear my mom left during the night when I was 7 I still feel abandonment when a partner tucks the covers between us.

[@tomchrysostomou4895]

A fantastic talk, in the group of better TED talks& so inspiring. A humble man, who has inspired me through his book Shapeshifter to kick-start the second part of my change. Today am who I am in part because of the lessons & real life wisdom I absorbed from Geoff Thompson, he is an inspiration!

[@eniarah]

Amazing Geoff glad I finally got to see this

[@shodansmith]

Followed Geoff’s work for a long time, he is an amazing individual, maximum respect!

[@johnnymcnoodle27]

An incredible , beautiful human being.

[@HipHopAn0n]

Geoff is the REAL deal! If you try what he says, you will become a more powerful person and be able to inspire others!

[@AndiSteel3000]

Thanks Geoff. 🙏🏽

[@ivansi1374]

Simply the greatest ted talk I have ever heard,uplifting and so practical,,

[@OverdriveMusic]

Beautiful man! Pure heart

[@ramguna2010]

Spoken straight from his heart..

[@IronGent]

Great speech.

[@DeanCoulsonOfficialPage]

Thank you my brother for sharing this beautiful talk. You empower and inspire me in equal measure x

[@tsanghera]

Geoff, you always speak the truth in such a cogent manner. Truly inspiring my friend.

[@informationexistence2477]

oftentimes, when I became scared, I tried to remember something. Anything that would help. But every technique kept resulting in failure or increased side effect of fear. So I instead took hold of the Lao Tzu quote saying, "The Way of the sage is to act but not to compete." I began to simply do. To just act. I found that I mentally (and because I see things in a first person point of perspective I saw only my story) I probably rewrote or made a bigger deal of a situation making things more complex than simply doing. So, rather than compete, I simply moved my hands. Like saying, "just because I won't deny doesn't mean I agree. Or, just because I won't agree doesn't mean I agree." Simply doing is as simple as saying, "Instead of fighting I made the gig purposeless, so that I didn't lose because it wasn't a match; and I didn't win because it wasn't a match. Only then did my animal instincts of fighting for a mate or scrapping over food finally subside. I soon after didn't fumble for techniques like a man in need of immediate but distant help he can merely see but not apply. I made things simply. I acted, not fought."

[@carnivalwrestler]

Brilliant. So much to think about and digest. "Fear knocked on the door. Love answered. There was nobody there."

[@Fireguy723]

Geoff Thompson, the ultimate gentleman warrior.

[@SBecktacular]

What a powerful story... I’m blown away.

[@mandywood5143]

Fear is a very powerful controlling emotion. It destroys everything in its path. To overcome fear is not an easy task. To fight Fear head on and come out the other side unscathed is impossible. The ripples of peoples actions are what shape the world we live in . Geoff you are creating a ripple of love understanding compassion and forgiveness. Let your waves override all that has passed.... let them rule high and powerful. We can make a change by speaking out and uniting .Bless you always x

[@stevethomas74]

I loved this, what a great guy and a truly emotive and life-affirming talk. I'm terrified of confrontation, even verbal and non-threatening. I just do a 'good' job of looking stoic. It's my biggest fear outside of small enclosed spaces (then again, having been trapped 3 times in lifts for starters hasn't helped)! I certainly wish Geoff all the continued success and love in the world 🙂 P.S, I will NOT be taking up a doorman position anytime soon, especially at nearly 50! I like having my face and organs in working order :D

[@johnfarrell8332]

Absolutely fantastic.

[@alanpower8234]

if you get the chance see Geoff play fragile. unbelievably powerful and touching .

[@shanekenny2344]

Thank you so so much for doing that talk .

[@tonyska]

Incredibly powerful.

[@narellesmith473]

Eloquent. Brilliant. thank you

[@flvflv4712]

Goeff is the man!

[@WellnessRetreats]

Brilliant Geoff!

[@rahvastepaabel]

Great speech!

[@louiehannigan7835]

God bless this amazing man 🙏

[@rodgersmith228]

took alot to open up and share the feelings ,to all ,respect is due geoff

[@grezzer1427]

1 word Describe the ted talk, POWERFUL. This is so moving and inspiring 😊👊🏾👊🏾👊🏾💯

[@HansBaier]

Very powerful. It really touched me. Thanks for sharing.

[@Jonathanmentor]

Fantastic so inspiring

[@jeanoliveiragomes585]

and you inspire me, i havê no words to say what you represente to me, thank you man.

[@nanciesee]

Agreed. I loved the talk!

[@PickyfromTerminology]

Incredible story from one of my favourite teachers!

[@aussieexpress]

Thank you Geoff for sharing and you are a true inspiration.

[@Kev80ification]

I love this man.

[@1amb1]

great talk, geoff always has a freshness about him and his content, never gets boring or old.

[@STEVEREEVES4444]

Geoff you are an amazing man ! An inspiration ! God bless you !

[@peterbrennan393]

geoff is such an inspiration.

[@PedroDVC]

Nothing less than inspiring...