The Danger of Your Inner Bully | Theresa Byrne | TEDxChapelHillLive

Do you have an inner bully? Martial Artist and Personal Power Coach, Master Theresa Byrne explains how you can shift your mindset from listening to defeating self talk (what she calls your inner bully), to instead discover and be empowered your inner warrior.
Theresa Byrne is self-defense expert and founder of a martial arts center, teaching others how inner power can transform lives. Theresa is the first woman to earn the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt Master Instructor in her system. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication with concentrations in Psychology/Business.
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Master Theresa Byrne is national self-defense expert and speaker, author of 5 books, and founder of a martial arts & fitness center. Featured on ABC, FOX, NBC, & SPIKE TV she teaches others how inner power can transform lives. Theresa is the first woman to earn the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt Master Instructor in her system. She’s been a featured specialist on the TV series, “The Best Defense”, and co-host of SPIKE TV’s” “Practical Tactical”, “What If”, “Don’t Be a Victim” and “If Lives Depend On It”. In the ABC Family TV show “Fitting In” helping kids get healthy, Theresa appears in “FAT is not a Four Letter Word” as a fitness and movement expert. Theresa is the recipient of the AMEX M3 "Count Me In" Award from the Women’s Economic Development Council for female entrepreneurs. Theresa is a certified Anger Management Coach/Educator and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication with concentrations in Psychology/Business. 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

[@kotakgmasuk]

I never liked bullies, I enjoyed just sitting back to watch them fail, and now I see my own inner bully... This woman's path has really taken her some places, her ability to see the big picture... I see how she is going to help...

[@albinachatton4390]

I have been having a lousy time during the lockdowns, then seeing this makes me realize your life is as good as you make it. I have such admiration for this woman ... watch this talk!

[@jovitasardens207]

the importance of self talk! what a fabulous talk, with so many awesome pointers and tools. love this lady's energy!

[@kotakgmasuk]

It's really important I am realizing!

[@nohadiesl]

how many of us pay 1000s a year to have a professional teach us this and this lady simplifies it and puts it into a 15 minute ted talk. amazing! i'll be sharing this. absolutely brilliant.

[@jonathanvallers]

It is a great talk but I don't know that it could/should replace the work a professional therapist does.

[@valarchavez]

@@jonathanvallers I think that depends on how harsh our inner bully actually is 😅😅

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you! I don’t disagree. Therapists are amazing at diagnosing and treating mental illnesses that go beyond just self-defeating patterns.

[@RickReynoldsCCHT]

And you can hire her for a fraction of that cost to coach you on a regular basis. She's an awesome coach!

[@theresabyrne]

⁠@@RickReynoldsCCHTthank you for saying so! I love helping others through their own challenges - brain related or not. It’s all mindset!

[@coachlisha]

Incredibly powerful and inspiring, and so well delivered! Theresa fully embodies the spirit of "I've got this!"

[@theresabyrne]

You do @coach Lisha “you got this” Thank you for the kind words!

[@anonisanonymous]

I'm grateful for the reminder to be gentle with ourselves. We all have an inner warrior; sometimes, we just need to give it a little encouragement.

[@someonednamessomeone]

I love the mantra "I got this." It's a simple yet powerful affirmation that can boost confidence and remind us of our capabilities.

[@crashtv6478]

It's actually somewhat of a relief to know that everyone has a harsh inner voice. I've been making myself feel bad for making myself feel bad...

[@georgiarouse]

If self-awareness was gold, this woman would be swimming in it. What an incredible journey she has been on and to know and understand how her brain has coped and rewired is just incredible. This is such an important thing for us to understand

[@peterdgrubb]

Seriously though, she's so switched on, she gets it!

[@theresabyrne]

Wow thank you for your kind words - I’m still on the journey and your words remind me how far I’ve come!

[@gwendolyncarnell]

I've struggled with negative self-talk for a long time, and Theresa's mantra of "I got this" is a simple yet powerful reminder to combat those inner doubts. It might sound cheesy, but repeating it to myself really does make a difference.

[@julestempest]

"Our bodies are created not just for survival but for thriving" - love this positive outlook!

[@daphnefish]

I love that perspective change, and I can definitely see how viewing that inner voice as a warrior instead of a bully would be so empowering and I would think a lot easier to manage the negative thoughts.

[@susanpqpowell]

You are such a light Theresa. Thank you so much for being vulnerable and open like this. There are many of us who need this message and your wisdom

[@honeyissweetforme]

It took me way too long to understand that how we speak to ourselves impacts our mental health! If only I'd find Theresa's talk when I was growing up 😤😤

[@jessiedallen]

Such danger! I love Theresa's talk here. So much info and a reminder that we can always change and do better!

[@marekduvanche]

Timely reminder for me

[@audreylstamford]

The self-awareness or even just being sick of a cycle and realising that inner voice has been sabotaging me for so long. That dialogue is so important to be aware of. Thank you Theresa for this brilliant talk!

[@katyabradova]

We all think we have issues to get over, then, we see a talk like this. This is perspective.

[@kalebmurch3528]

just what I was thinking.

[@giuliocecchinato]

Woke me up to my whining.

[@geoffdeeprose9469]

wow

[@alantcase]

It really is!

[@rustythecat]

She is amazing, and really good looking too!

[@jayreaves1578]

The whole idea of having an inner bully and an inner warrior inside us is so eye-opening. It's like, we've got this constant battle going on in our heads, and we get to choose which voice we listen to.

[@littleblossomtoday]

Your call to stand up to our inner bullies hit home. It's time we take charge of our narratives, declare 'I got this,' and move forward with purpose.

[@jasesyter]

Why are we programmed to be so hard on ourselves, focus on our mistakes and what we think was wrong? The inner bully just drones on about it.

[@RedFountainAdvertising]

Challenges are inevitable, but so is our ability to overcome them.

[@saturnsrings3608]

Loving the concept of our inner warriors. We all have the power to overcome challenges, it's just activating that mindset.

[@gerdefrederick]

The concept of post-traumatic growth resonates deeply. I've always felt that challenges can be stepping stones to a stronger self if we allow ourselves the right mindset to overcome them

[@jonasblix]

Floored by her journey, her recovery and being as noble as to share her experience. This will help me a bunch.

[@theresarives]

You so not damaged, you are so powerful and smart!!!!!!!!

[@theresabyrne]

Wow! Thank you. I mean really thank you!

[@milagroczarnecki]

This will be my 3rd time watching your talk Theresa and I really do love your way of explaining mindfulness, self-awareness and kindness to self. I feel like every time I watch your talk I'm getting a better understanding of my Inner Warrior. Thank you !

[@jaspernedivek]

It's a thing that more people should be taught to be aware of from a young age. Thankful to Ms. Byrne for sharing her story, it's really encouraging.

[@WormholeHaven]

We never know what battles someone might be fighting, your story really touched me. Life can be so unpredictable but hearing of your strength in the face of it is truly inspiring!

[@IWonaMillion]

I loved Theresa's call to action to stand up against our inner bullies. The power of positive self-talk is so under-rated.

[@moyaresgard]

This woman is so alive, when she was so close to death. A MUST SEE!!!

[@sarahyjames]

I finally watched it!!! she is so lovely.

[@pengzhou6952]

and I saw!!!

[@rinanoshinikov]

brilliant woman, real role model.

[@matveykoshelev]

she is a legend!!!

[@georgecox2933]

She really is.

[@valenciaponomarenco]

I watched this talk years ago and actually started doing some of the things she speaks about, it has genuinely helped me. My self-talk is so much more positive and I also feel completely comfortable telling people to not say negative things about themselves.

[@verymarysalisbury]

This woman is FABULOUS, she is my new hero!

[@bigdollarsigns]

Mine too, thanks for sharing it!

[@angel_rai]

Theresa's talk reminded me that the way we treat ourselves matters just as much as how we treat others. It's time to stop being my own worst critic and start being my biggest supporter.

[@mehdidouinine]

I appreciate the idea of living in a friendly universe versus a hostile one. It's empowering to think that we have the ability to create a positive and supportive environment for ourselves.

[@1luckylepine]

The description of her accident was vivid and real for me as I recently went through a similar experience. Wow, brought it all back in slow motion.

[@florenciaconde3817]

I related so much to what she said about her inner bully telling her she was worthless after her injury. I think we've all had moments where we've felt like failures and struggled to see our own value.

[@COCOtheBRAT]

My favorite TED, she is amazing and strong!

[@janegeegeehogge]

We are who we are, and you are perfect.... Thanks Theresa wonderful talk.

[@stratulatlucian8064]

Being left alone for a long period of time with only your thoughts. "The moment you start beating yourself up, your brain stops healing" so worth the listen.

[@lincolnmessier1840]

It's so very true!!

[@phyllishack]

that made me think a lot

[@talismesmer]

I appreciate how Theresa talks about the inner warrior within us.

[@sylviacrittendon]

This wasnt brain damage, this was awakening, seeing and smelling life the way she does, wow.

[@taniagill4673]

100% not, she's freekin amazing..

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you! What a great way to say it - it feels like a second chance from the awakening of my brain!

[@theresabyrne]

@@taniagill4673 Bless YOU!

[@geoffdeeprose9469]

agreed

[@taniagill4673]

@@theresabyrne wow great talk TB

[@TheAmendIsNow]

What an amazing person. The matter of fact way she tells her "accident" story won me instantly.

[@rosiealturo14]

The inner warrior is a powerful concept. We all have the strength within us to overcome obstacles and tap into our inner power.

[@ianrendle]

Taking a stand against the inner bully is easier said than done. It's a daily struggle for many.

[@johngayton]

Holy heck Theresa has blown my mind. I know that the ability to rewire a brain is something we have been looking at for a while but to have to go through all that she did and come out the other end such a pure soul?! Brilliant

[@jackrichards9402]

I am so inspired right now too!

[@oscarkluk]

I am in awe of this woman, I can't imagine how difficult her recovery must have been.

[@katrienkarsen]

I come back to this talk monthly. Plus I share it with friends. This is a very important part in not only healing, but thriving.

[@granmabecker]

"You can not hate yourself thin, you can not hate yourself better." I don't have the words to explain how much that sentence has gotten to me.

[@luciddreamsspace]

The analogy she makes about our inner bully as a toxic relationship is so accurate. We wouldn't tolerate that from others, so why should we tolerate it from ourselves?

[@darioconsolata8691]

Making an agreement to challenge and counteract the inner bully is a powerful commitment. It's important to be kind to ourselves and nurture self-belief.

[@jessiesangster]

The recount of the car accident and the subsequent journey through a brain injury is both harrowing and inspiring. It's a stark reminder of life's unpredictability and the strength it takes to face such challenges head-on.

[@catastrid]

This woman is a warrior, powerful and smart, no brain injury can stop her...

[@bobbywie]

"I got this" is such a simple phrase but it's so powerful. I'm gonna start saying it to myself in the mirror every morning as a reminder that I can handle whatever comes my way

[@tinatuvalle]

Love this talk so much. Very easy to dispel the negative self-talk once you see it for the bully it is!

[@erynsee1319]

This is an amazing woman, in a time when we worry about the future, its awesome to hear personal stories of overcoming.

[@harrisonstenson8324]

I hear you...

[@katiaromanow]

I want to hang out with her, she seems so cool and fun.

[@erynsee1319]

@@katiaromanow haha - just dont go driving with her..

[@theresabyrne]

@@erynsee1319 Agreed! That's funny, thank you for the laugh!

[@aliyahrhodes]

I saw this talk years ago and it really helped shift my mindset. Very nice to see it pop up again and reinforce just how far I've come mentally!

[@sharoncooper4161]

She really speaks so much truth, reminds me of all the times I told myself I couldnt.

[@nadiaferchichi]

yes me too

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you so much Sharon, I think it’s such a human experience. Sometimes we rock, sometimes we get stopped.

[@nadiaferchichi]

@@theresabyrne I love that quote.

[@theresabyrne]

@@nadiaferchichi Aw thanks! Just made it up when replying to Sharon. It fits, right? And I know I go through it too.

[@phyllismknapp6038]

Oh you got that right.

[@briannestory9750]

What a brilliant speaker! Her energy is so welcoming. And what a story! Everything she's been through and to have this spark and SO MANY VALID POINTS about our inner bully. I really really enjoyed this!

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you so much! And so glad it spoke to you.

[@briannestory9750]

@@theresabyrne thanks to you Theresa, you are wonderful!

[@moanaoloha]

I really love her message and you can tell how dedicated she is to this mindset, and how it's helped her.

[@kogordanuk]

She is a real force of nature... and very beautiful too...

[@vivianpatgreen]

Calling that negative self-dialogue our inner bully is pretty interesting... Many of us may not even realize we have an inner bully, or how damaging it can be to our self-esteem and well-being. Personally I try to be aware of the negative self talk but calling it that really puts it in perspective and might even make it easier to control. Thanks Theresa, great talk.

[@aldennoname]

Definitely agree that it can be the loudest and most persistent voice...

[@suminkim346]

I like the idea about setting boundaries with the inner bully. Honestly never considered it or how it might work. Thank you.

[@iambruteforce]

Theresa you are an absolute powerhouse. I love your perspective and can't wait to read your books.

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you!!

[@jenniferzowada8510]

So true Theresa! Dis-Stress = Dis-Ease, Everyone needs to discover their inner warrior - Great talk

[@theresabyrne]

YES! Dis-ease is no fun, and beating ourselves up? Creates a sense of negative stress, dis-stress! Thank you for your kind words.

[@itzpredicator3589]

amazing woman

[@jacquelinebrumbaugh]

Loved her energy and her perspective. I'll be saving this talk to have a listen again.

[@gretaallison]

She needs a talk show!

[@VodkaByNight]

Wow, Theresa's story of facing adversity head-on is truly inspiring. Her message about turning inner struggles into strength resonates deeply with me. I've often found that our biggest challenges can become our greatest sources of power.

[@thesugarshackishere]

This talk is a reminder to be kinder to ourselves, and that our inner warrior is always ready to fight for us! Love it 💪🏼💖

[@kobetclark]

All of this is spot on. Positive self-talk is so important.

[@google_was_my_ideaforreal]

Thank you for the reminder to stand up to our inner bullies. It's really important to remember that we have the power to do that, and also to control our thinking in general

[@IAmASeaMonkey]

There is some really beautiful knowledge and lessons in this talk but I think the most important thing is to just be kind to yourself.

[@IAmTheRealJoker]

She really puts it into perspective, amazing woman!

[@susanpqpowell]

So many of us have to battle that inner bully, hearing about her struggles with it really helped me to feel less alone

[@timoguedon]

The inner bully, I was raised on think the worst and hope for the best. This allowed for many wonderful and pleasant surprises in a household that could be quite turbulent.

[@rheeslewis]

Agreed!

[@charlievantas]

You are woman you are strong, you are not damaged, I see you as powerful and smart and in touch!

[@andrea-harrison]

I think we all see ourselves damaged at some point. But what Theresea is doing is really amazing

[@magaliegoulet]

“The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”

[@geenaremsby]

She has an inner strength that is so compassionate, and her story is so good. I love the bit about beating yourself up, so true...

[@Me-lolahernandez]

I loved her point about how we'd never yell at a cut to make it heal faster, but we do that to ourselves all the time. It's so true - we're way harsher on ourselves than we'd ever be to anyone else.

[@elaineclouston]

every1 should be telling themselves every day 'don't be hard on yourself' what a great talk. this lady knows how to make you feel better

[@orlaithhill]

What a breath of fresh air, long gone are the days of thinking we have to push ourselves to the point of breaking point in order to be worthy.

[@IAmTheRealMagicMan]

I loved the superhero analogy - we've all got an origin story and some villains to battle! Sometimes those villains are inside our own heads, but we've got the strength to take 'em down.

[@natashafederov]

Her story about the car accident and brain injury was intense. I can't even imagine going through something like that and having to relearn so much. Talk about tapping into your inner warrior 💪🏼💪🏼

[@juneedgin7151]

I had no idea what this would be about, and it was such a surprise and so uplifting.

[@theresabyrne]

Thank you! You made my day!

[@aylamorris]

“That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” ― Friedrich Nietzsche

[@brittaniecrum]

and here is proof!

[@tonyiquintero]

awesome Nietzsche!!!

[@magnuskarlsonn]

true true and truer!

[@-GreyMatter-]

Loved the story about helping the young boy transform his self-perception. So heartwarming and it shows that we can all tap into our inner warriors and rewrite our own narratives - no matter how difficult the circumstances!

[@ihavebigpaws]

I resonated with the journey of post-traumatic growth. It's a reminder that our struggles can be the catalysts for our greatest transformations. Embracing the inner warrior mindset might just be the key.

[@faithcortellis]

This woman is a revelation! What an absolute boss.

[@luizantoniomachado]

So resilient so strong.

[@ElaineStarling]

Such a powerful and important message: How to overcome our inner bully to harness our inner super hero! This is a must watch!

[@theresabyrne]

@elainestarling THANK YOU!

[@logan-steele]

I've never thought of the voices in my head as my "inner bully". Puts a different spin on everything, thanks Theresa.

[@EmosterPink]

"You cannot hate yourself successful" - that line is gonna stick with me. I'm guilty of beating myself up when I'm working towards a goal and not seeing progress fast enough. Time for a mindset shift!

[@paulacharlesstanley]

Her discussion on the different fight, flight, and freeze responses was very enlightening and definitely helped me understand my reactions better.

[@kaymitchell4935]

Navigating negative self-talk can be so difficult, it's always refreshing to find someone talking about how to overcome it.

[@hooponopono8528]

Thank you for sharing your powerful story. It's inspiring to see how you continue to thrive after overcoming such a devastating experience

[@elizabethbernard3135]

Freeze response as anxiety sums me up so much. I just pause and don’t know where to go or what to do next, and then think I should be doing something, but don’t know what to do. It is just an infinite loop... Fun.

[@MarkAlanEffinger]

You just Brene' Browned Like a Boss, Theresa! Really awesome to see your recovery so dramatically amplified from the stage. Thank you!

[@theresabyrne]

Wow I don't think you could've said anything nicer or with more impact, thank you so much!

[@samirahussein2390]

Men say women are emotional and weak, no man would get up off the mat like she did. And still be kind - this is strength.

[@sadzigrezoh]

Such danger with that inner bully! What a great title but the information and experience she dishes out is superb and something I think everyone I know could take something from. Sharing this one.

[@shimmikang]

The part about the 11 year old boy who was bullying himself broke my heart. Kids are so impressionable at that age. I'm glad she was able to help him start to see his own strength.

[@11ThaoNguyen11]

I watch this every few weeks as a reminder of just how important it is to not beat myself up. Thank you for this Theresa.

[@marianaattentio]

This woman is amazing!! What an accomplished life she's had.

[@Iamcarlosdanger]

This is a great talk, it's really important to be aware of our self-talk.