Three Questions to unlock your authentic career: Ashley Stahl at TEDxBerkeley

Ashley Stahl at TEDxBerkeley 2014: "Rethink. Redefine. Recreate." Her talk is titled "3 Questions to Unlock your Authentic Career."
Ashley Stahl is an award-winning advocate for women in security, named in 2013 by the Diplomatic Courier magazine and Young Professionals in Foreign Policy as a "Top 99 Under 33 Foreign Policy Leader." Ashley currently runs her own business as a career coach to college students and fresh graduates seeking to unlock their career goals and land the jobs that they deserve. She also contributes to Forbes on issues of national security and serves as Manager of the Enterprise Risk Management Center at Control Risks, a global political risk consultancy. In this position, Ashley leads a team of intelligence analysts who advise a Fortune 100 client on how to protect its personnel and assets from security threats in hostile environments around the world. Previously, Ashley was the Operations Lead for the Pentagon's Ministry of Defense Advisors (MoDA) training program, which prepares senior Department of Defense officials for their deployments to Afghanistan, where they would serve as advisors to foreign counterparts in the Afghan Ministries of Defense and Interior.
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[@lun321]

1. I don't know what I'm good at. 2. I don't know anybody or have any friends I'm off to a great start.

[@babblesp1367]

A A I have the same problem.

[@Easyhandler]

Same here

[@vishasharma7121]

What about someone who looks like Rachel. Nice Content! Would you like to be my KZbin Friends :)

[@waltofalltrades6817]

Same

[@karanroopbhatti6357]

WHY IS THIS ME😭

[@austinripley3688]

I’m good at sitting and watching hours and hours worth of online content

[@stefanrijos63]

haha! same here pal.

[@Nivrioyacal]

Be a film critic

[@kingdavid8178]

Yeah you realize people on youtube get paid to make live reactions right? Your comment was supposed to be a joke but the funny reality is you can actually make money even from that what was supposed to be a joke comment

[@austinripley3688]

@@kingdavid8178 ikr

[@pelliorosh]

Hmmm, data analyst lol

[@alishaokeeffe7574]

Can anyone honestly say they watched this and now feels less confused about their future? As people we love to romanticise things and make things making them sound more grand and divine than they are in reality. You don't 'find' your one true passion that is somehow built into each individual and is there to be 'unlocked'. You CREATE passion based on something you dedicate your time to. If you enjoy it, passion will develop. The same applies for identity. 'You don't find yourself you create yourself'. I'm not going out and looking for myself, I'm creating the identity I'd like to have. If I want to be a guitarist, I'll pick up a guitar. If the circumstances are right, I might well end up being a great guitarist. (Example) I think it takes a lot of bravery to do a talk like this. Knowing that people are making important decisions based on your advice is a lot of responsibility. I just hope this served people well, I can't say it did for me. But I'm not claiming to be a professional.

[@MonikaWoodstraveler]

That's a terrible idea. Career coaching is an integral part of the educational system. We often lie to ourselves thinking we want to do a certain job, when we really do not want that. The problem with disenchantment, disenfranchisement, and lack of purpose is people who do not start unlocking their potential early in life. You can't wait until you are 18-20 and start experimenting, a quarter of your life is over. You can't listen to people who think "oh do it like I did" - it doesn't work. There is to much at stake. Our personality develops before the age of seven, we can begin exploring career options if AND only if we are aware of the options and directions. Not mapping out your life is like wanting to take a trip around the world, you can want a great trip, but without proper planning it may be interesting but it will be dangerous, you will face obstacles you did not need to face, and you won't be prepared to experience a life of purpose.

[@skyrasmus4760]

Monika Woods Are you seriously proposing people start the path to figuring out their career at 7 years old? That just seems like a huge expectation that will never work. I know people who change careers at any time of their life and are happy for doing so. Life doesn't need to be "mapped out" to be "successful."

[@elisendadomenjo3223]

Maddie O'Keeffe this was a Good reflection

[@divyaganesh7206]

I agree with maddie

[@umbertomaglione8527]

Thanks... this made me reflect a lot more than watching this, so much more authentic. I feel like people nowadays are very “static”, I know it’s a strange term but I usually feel like attempting new things is like a waste of time. The “figure out” process is just trial and errors

[@heathertoomey7068]

I'm skipping the first question. The second question is one I've never asked myself. 2. What do people say I'm good at? - Getting people to open up and tell me their feelings that they never told anybody - Being a peacemaker/ mediator - Motivating people to be their best - Understanding visuals when they are described verbally - making guacamole - reading aloud fast - knowing how to spell words - knowing grammar rules - good at playing with kids - playing trombone - getting good grades in school - telling stories I already know - writing - integrity - remembering my dreams 3. What's holding me back - I don't know what career would satisfy me and give me joy.

[@ash.vi.]

AHHH THIS COMMENT!! Feel very much the same

[@karynmitchell4247]

I think most of the things on your list would be great attributes for a child/adolescent therapist!

[@oinkoink1909]

you should make guacamole while playing trombone

[@heathertoomey7068]

@@karynmitchell4247 Thanks! I am going into that field!

[@jamilafatkullina5514]

@Heather Toomey good luck

[@janiecekeys4765]

What am i good at. - math / problem solver What do ppl tell me i am good at - staying calm / patient / discernment Whats holding me back - anxiety / money / time / focus / drive

[@alis7135]

Then...based off of what you told me, I feel like you would be a good professor/teacher. But Idk

[@akhileshsajwan9248]

Look into software developer or data science.

[@user-vc9or5uc4x]

@@alis7135 I agree

[@user-qo1hy9vt7u]

Engineering

[@DjokovicIsOurLordAndSaviour]

@@alis7135 Not sure if anxiety is a good mix with kids. They can be little nightmares. 🙃 Not to mention parents.

[@ludoviajante]

So are we just going to ignore that Amy Santiago is now a career coach?

[@urstrulyvee]

LITERALLY WHAT I THOUGHT BYE

[@avery9282]

THATS WHAT I SAID JUST NOW LMAOOOOOO

[@avery9282]

AND HER INITIALS ARE ALSO “A S” WTFFF

[@renejaftha3340]

😂😂

[@brookezirker9287]

I was looking for this comment

[@briantimothy1731]

1:51 What am I good at? 5:15 What do people tell me I'm good at? 7:39 What's holding me back?

[@blahblah3850]

thankyou!!!

[@The_Bearded_Spook]

Many thanks!

[@Spark-wt8vu]

Thank you! I'm good at studying and speaking. People ask advice regarding job choices and course. What's holding me back is my bills 😂

[@nicknico4121]

What's holding back most of people is the fear of not being paid enough for a job/career that ticks all the boxes, except for the salary, even if we know we are competent and we feel fulfilled doing it.

[@Samantha-vlly]

The scenario to most people who live in 3rd world countries.

[@emank8137]

Wow! no truer words were ever spoken... "your interest in a subject does not guarantee your success in a career with it" Thank you soo much for that reminder!

[@juanjavier5144]

9 Habits To Manifest Your Dreams Using The Law Of Attraction >> *( Pdfdownload2015*com )*

[@kuneeyakanna9041]

Thanks for the video content! Excuse me for butting in, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you heard the talk about - Chiveard Discovering Potential Framework (search on google)? It is an awesome one of a kind guide for finding your true calling and achieving success minus the headache. Ive heard some interesting things about it and my BF at very last got excellent results with it.

[@everythingdiamonds]

Fridge!

[@aster7482]

Yes!! I'm good at science but i honestly don't think I would be happy in a career like that

[@rafmyst6006]

Set it to 1.25 and she talks at a normal speed.

[@officialtyler1742]

Lmaooooo

[@drnishasingh936]

@@officialtyler1742 ¹1111111¹1¹¹1

[@aaronmathew4420]

Thank you

[@bharati4076]

Kevin Mabry my focus won’t let that be either. I had to set it to 1.5x and sometimes even 1.75x😂

[@sowmyaveera]

RAFMYST thank you

[@angie1226]

I remember I spent my whole childhood drawing clothes since I wanted to be a fashion designer in Paris but then life just taught me that I was simply not good enough for it. Passion can lead to success but only if it goes hand in hand with personal ability.

[@rishitasinghchauhan124]

dont give up on the dream you were working for almost half of your life who says you are not good enough thats what people think dont give up doing what you love is a great blessing so dont judge yourself

[@heathertoomey7068]

The people in Paris probably have degrees in it

[@rtlau-mk4di]

@@heathertoomey7068 Actually, no. They probably don't have degrees in it..lol

[@rizichim505]

Not when it goes with personal ability but rather with discipline and commitment

[@docej3025]

**SOOOO... DEVELOP THE ABILITY. RAW TALENT IS RARE AND IS OVERCOME BY RAW PASSION! LEARN IT!

[@johannatampogao3922]

when she mentioned about how most people often hide their identity, it hit me hard like how i have to show to everyone that I'm capable in solving problems even though I know myself I can't. And it's exhausting to continuously wear the image that the career wants u to be when u know u aren't.

[@tr1ckster726]

Deep stuff, spot on. The thing is though, everyone is faking it - the world runs on mediocrity. You aren't alone. You can dictate your future though, if you don't like problem solving, see if you can move towards a more business-driven and people facing role like an Analyst/project manager. Another way of saying what she is talking about is "play to your strengths". Good luck 🍀

[@Marmit42424]

My previous post wasn't very kind or in the spirit of consideration for what Ashley said here. If you want to be great, focus on what matters (it's God, not you). Live for Him first, live and die for others because He lived and died for you second, and third try to make the most of the gift of today. In everything you do, rely on Him, and He will make your path straight. Life is about a lot more than your job.

[@sherwaynemorrison1301]

Lol!

[@kevinoliveira8576]

i appreciate it.

[@kevinoliveira8576]

9:10

[@Haannibal777]

I am super confused by the question, Who I am? Such a non question.

[@Marmit42424]

Previous comment wasn't very helpful. I'll say this, if you want a truly great career you had better work your ass into the ground to get it and then work your ass off when you have it. Remove this faulty notion that something great out there is waiting for you. The only places waiting to unlock your career for you are fast food chains.

[@Katsukii6]

What am I good at: singing, cheering people up, letting people open up and share their stories, empathy, playing video games, learning new languages, logical thinking What do people say that I am good at: assessing human beings, and pretty much the same as above What’s holding me back: not-high income, fear of intensive workload, fear of compassion fatigue

[@create306]

go become a therapist

[@abhaya7b]

you're me I'm you

[@pykaylee286]

Maybe couseling or therapist might work for you? At least in US i know couselors got paid pretty good

[@tryhard7257]

What I'm good at: Art/Creating/animation What people tell me: Art/writing What's holding me back: motivation

[@peachbooks3199]

THIS

[@vishnuvijayan7891]

Same here

[@kasumimizuhana2614]

Same..

[@ordavis]

If you're not motivated by it, maybe you don't actually enjoy it that much.

[@karaboramashilo8199]

I don’t think passion is something you find, I think it’s something we all have, you just have to find a platform to express it.

[@9rbloomer836]

I love this!!! I graduated with a Bachelors in Graphic Design and Advertising two years ago and really thought design was what I should be doing with my career. Though I love design and the art/strategy behind advertising, I've discovered that I'd rather create on my own time as a talent I can enjoy freely, while as a career, I've surprisingly been engaged lately in being a supervisor and event coordinator because being a great hostess, problem solving, and helping people be comfortable and creating memories is who I am. Its amazing where life can take you and its so wonderful when surprises come your way that open your eyes to see where you should be!

[@kasumimizuhana2614]

Does it pays well?

[@kasumimizuhana2614]

I want to become one too

[@darkma1ice]

Ted(x) talk formula: 1. Title is usually from 30 secs of the speech 2. The talk is the speech form of an about webpage 3. The talk is an infomercial

[@aayushigawde5829]

" to tune out the social pressure , and to tune in to what we are" A line to live by

[@BrandonCase]

This is just a 10 minute commercial for her business... pushing you toward hiring a career coach without giving much information.Not at all up to TED's standard.

[@PetitHibou72]

TEDx is always the giveaway though - different outlet with different criteria. I proceed w/ caution on these... The TED brand should beware diluting itself with these for sure, I agree.

[@Funwinxpixee]

I didn't feel scammed at all actually

[@user-ni9vi2ru5e]

I'm not agree with u)

[@iqbalhape]

It is very beneficial for me as I am redesigning my career now. I guess it's back to everyone's perspective, but if you dont get anything from this doesnt mean it is a scam. I suggest you to start realize, the world is spinning and you are not the center of it

[@alev9806]

You are right but I feel the same for 99% of ted videos...actually I don't even think why I fall everytime for these "I Wanna feel smarter today but instead I'm listening to a 10 minute commercial" videos

[@hannahtipping1350]

Saw this ted talk a couple of months ago, and it inspired me. Ashley's words and insights helped me figure out my goals- and got me a new job I was too scared to apply for (from fear of not being good enough). I'm now loving my job and have career goals planned.

[@raeesahmentin3901]

I'm really happy for you💐

[@PAWANHINGE]

What I observed from below comments, Ashley had replied to those who are good to her and ignored other comments. Well she could have approach positively to negative comments also. I do not want to doubt on anyone's achievement but the claim (of being coach) need to be justified. It is just my opinion.

[@cheyennecolin5546]

“What is holding you back?” Becoming a psychologist is a 7 year HIGHLY EXPENSIVE journey 😬😬

[@annland781]

Most likely you can qualify for the Pell grant that funded my 4 years completely. Grad school is student loans. the time goes very quickly. I started college at 44 yrs old and will be graduating this Spring 2023 with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I was on the fence between that and a Psychologist, but realized my talent is with talking to people over building experiments and research. You can do it!

[@davidcreager6482]

When is the best time to plant a tree? 25 years ago, when is the next best time? NOW

[@MugenHeadNinja]

Just get a student loan and go into debt and pay it off for the rest of your life like everyone else. At least you got a job you want, and hopefully enjoy. (I'm half joking but unfortunately this is the only option for many, many people all throughout the US)

[@honeybunchesofgoats6781]

@@annland781 can you explain more about your talent and what it looks like day to day? PS congratulations! 🎉

[@annland781]

@@honeybunchesofgoats6781 Thank you. I have 2 months left before graduating in May, so my week is just 2 days spent at my internship site counseling students at a university, and one day I have a 2 hr class. I'll be applying for jobs soon where I'll be gathering hours towards licensure, then the big exam after that. Each state is different in their licensure requirements.

[@kathrynlesny9929]

I think the important part of this video, which a lot of people seem to be missing is that Ashley is giving us something that we have all been through, she is helping us relate that moment when it occurs to you "I shouldn't be here" and how to fix that problem. I've often heard people say well if you don't like it, get on with it and what we need are people like ashley saying "hey, I've been there, I know what you are going through and here is a quick run through of how I did it" whether or not you think she is advertising her business, why shouldn't she advertise? It is part of her.

[@AshleyStahlCareers]

Wow, Kathryn. I just read this and was so moved. You're so right, my business is a part of me. And part of me did feel when I listened to it that it felt a bit salesy in that way. What's funny about these talks is that they're somewhat of a blur- you speak, you walk off the stage, and it's like: did that happen? I almost didn't know I talked much about the biz until I saw it! Anyway, I'm rambling. Truly I just wanted to thank you for being so supportive. The world needs your energy. Blessings, Ash

[@rassetmarketing8767]

Saving for long comment.

[@acharich]

Mmm.. 💭💭💭

[@PetitHibou72]

The trouble is, there are too many coaches whose main case study is becoming a lifecoach of some sort themselves to escape a career that didn't fit. It becomes a pyramid scheme unless they can help cultivate diverse game plans for diverse groups of people. I will finish listening to the talk, but I am wary because the primary storyline so far (her own) is not relevant or inspiring to me at all. I am so burned out on coaching culture and its often empty rhetoric. It's not that there isn't a place for that role, but they need to realize it's already an oversaturated space and their own story (or instagram feed - ugh) is not enough on its own to convince or inspire. -a 45yo in a deep process of re-invention and inquiry

[@manuelaaristizabalquintero6505]

1- I'm good at working as a team, solving problems, researching specific topics. 2- People think I'm good at expressing myself in front of a public, delegating tasks and leading projects. 3- What is stopping me is not having much skill when organizing my time, because I have very long study days.

[@EditorDan]

If you're truly passionate about something you usually end up being really good at it

[@mounamedlemine9786]

But not alweys

[@dinindu9941]

@@mounamedlemine9786 most of the times. And that is good enough

[@JBRitchie8]

@@dinindu9941 eh

[@alexiakawa5040]

The only positive feedback I get is that I'm a good listener and make people comfortable enough to talk.

[@user-gh2lf1zw3r]

This was just common sense. There was no constructive advice whatsoever. And she’s always showing off about her life in every talk. She’s built a career off people who can’t see through her BS.

[@charliekgorden4390]

I loved this talk. I have been consuming a lot of careers and personal growth info lately and this has actual tangible questions I can ask to figure out who I am and what the heck to do next. Thanks!

[@juandavidbustamanteforonda1810]

1 - I am good at math, I consider myself good at statistics and administration. 2 - Other people tell me that I am good at math and also good at economics. 3 - I feel that the little free time stops me, the university demands a lot of time and the little that is left I like to rest.

[@edwardcamiloatehortuacorre6896]

In my little knowledge of the language, I believe that what my partner has done is well reported.

[@shaznewa752]

Persue career as analyst. Data analyst

[@JansenClegg]

These talks are useful, but I find they are sometimes too central to the person talking and can't be applied to everyone. I worked in HR for 5 years before deciding to change my career. I found the process very difficult, but there are tools online to help! There are free KZbin guides and I also found an online course called the "career enhancement network" even though it did take me a while to learn everything, I didn't regret trying to benefit myself.

[@SamCleggMusic]

Yes I know what you mean sometimes it’s difficult to feel completely empowered from a 8 min KZbin video. Thanks for the tips.

[@bendavis4670]

This talk was so helpful. While it hasn't magically solved all my problems(I never expected it to), this is definitely helping me take a step in the right direction.

[@lucillemiller2198]

what am i good at: studies of the human body/creating things/ managing money/ what people tell me i'm good at: giving advice/ massages/ sports/helping people/editing videos whats holding me back: i want to try everything so i cant choose one thing to do :P

[@tehashafie7834]

Your speech is so incredibly put together and clear. It is one thing what you loves but another thing of who you are.

[@samantasanclementemosquera6445]

1. I'm good at talking to people, listening to them, and helping them improve. 2. being charismatic, curious and creative 3. Not be constant

[@lostinmysalvation3104]

Made me think about career choices differently. I’m at a real crossroad in my life right now. These were helpful and practical questions for me to consider. Thank you.

[@Cranberry_haley]

What if I'm good at something and people tell me that I'm good at that thing, but what's holding me back is that I'm not passionate about it. I know she said that passion doesn't guarantee us success, which I agree on. But, what happens when I pursue something I don't like as my career? What happens then? I don't consider that success.

[@nylg13]

Not trying dramatic and all but tears formed in my eyes while listening to her talk. Maybe I was too invested in her words and they all hit me so hard, especially at this moment in my life. Thank you Ashley!

[@Atlanta718]

What am I good at? Passion : what do you love Reality: what you are Passion doesn't equal success Employees conceal their identity Ask for help, don't suffer alone Focus on who you are What do people tell you that you're good at? Teach Advise Praise What are your values? What do you teach others? What are your natural talents? Raises and job offers in the Job hunt Who I am, pay attention and find it. What is holding me back? Open your emotional baggage What are your thoughts? I am not good enough Question yourself What am I good at What do people tell me that I'm good at?; What's holding me back? Find work that aligns with who you are

[@dakshankrishnapalan6231]

The fact that she is claiming passion does not equate to success made me want to exit the video immediately. With the right drive, dedication and commitment you can turn your passions into a sustainable career. Just one example is starting a youtube channel revolving around what you're passionate about weather it be fitness, fashion, food or anything else. Don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't do something, usually those are the individuals who fail to do it themselves.

[@dakshankrishnapalan6231]

Its absolutely not the truth. If you're willing to relentlessly work towards your goals you can achieve them. You don't need people to give you a chance, once you develop a good product, people will flock.

[@dakshankrishnapalan6231]

That is reality. You have to think creatively but at the same time you have to be focused. Develop a plan, stay consistent and eventually you will be rewarded. The problem lies in time and resources. Most people don't have the luxury of "following their dreams," they have to work just to survive and in those cases, they often take the first job they can get. Don't limit yourself by telling yourself something isn't possible. By doing so you lose before you even give yourself a chance to begin.

[@justStardust940]

you must choose your career based on where passion and opportunity meet equilibrium. choosing on just one of those factors will lead to disappointment. If you love art, for example, perhaps choose web design, which has more demand in this era. if you love physics but are not gifted enough to pump out new research every year. perhaps work in research side of engineering

[@christianandluna6177]

"You can achieve anything" fallacy.

[@Nelster]

True, passion motivates people to put in maximum effort, but there is also a time to consider changing the direction you are headed, especially if the person doesn't have the aptitude to gain skills to match that passion. Luckily people can have multiple things they are passionate about. I think she is just saying passion is not the only ingredient in success, for you are more than just passion.

[@BrunoWonderEscritor]

Ashley, I have to say that I've been using this presentation with my teenage students and they take your words to heart! Thank you so much for doing what you do. Love from Brazil.

[@AshleyStahlCareers]

+Bruno César (Wonder Bruno) How kind are you!! Thank you for sharing this with me and I hope it makes a difference for all of them!!

[@briellegard6983]

I fell in love with cosmetology when I first started doing makeup at 12, but my mom shattered my dream when she said they don't make a lot of money...so I trashed that dream, but I always got compliments at my makeup and how I do it. They even ask me to do their makeup sometimes. For a long time, I wanted to do that, but switched to counseling because my mom and some friends agreed I am really easy to talk to and help them which I love. I love helping people and making them feel better, but doing makeup and hair has always been something I realized I was...just from how many compliments I got and what I'm good at.

[@matsf0311]

Thank you for such an inspiring video. I am looking for a job and at times I get down on myself with the negativity but I know deep down that I am worth so much more. I just need to keep the good vibes going and things will come.

[@missbg44]

Hi Annalise, I'm going through now what you've gone through as well. I hope only good things happened in the last 6 years

[@kathrynalexander7740]

This is a lovely way to farm the changes we need to make!

[@jojojojojojojojojojojojob]

answers to the 3 questions is leading me to become a porn star

[@EnteleiEchein]

hahaha

[@acharich]

😭

[@jussirytkonen2871]

What's holding you back?

[@kevinxu759]

joblagz go after your dream🌝

[@mohammadafaneh8595]

MINGLEE

[@raysaraye6063]

wow, I feel like she is speaking to me directly. I'm currently in school trying to figure out what it is that i want to do with my life.

[@jncr1976]

Live this! I'm getting ready to make the plunge in a new career path.

[@saramoreorless7318]

I know what I'm good at. I know what others tell me I'm good at and it is Money.....MONEY, that is holding me back. I cannot simply quit my job and hope that I somehow manifest the money I need to pay my bills while I work on my "authentic career".

[@ivancamacho7668]

Brilliant advice! So glad you were able to find your right path, so early!

[@edwardcamiloatehortuacorre6896]

1. I am good at directing and solving situations or problems quickly, I have a quick and critical mind which allows me to delegate and coordinate in a good way. 2. People say I am good at math and directing projects, they also say I express myself well. 3. Many times I am stopped by thoughts of conformity and attacks of laziness.

[@juandavidbustamanteforonda1810]

It's very companionable, I don't see any mistakes at first sight.

[@andreac647]

I think many people have misunderstood her. Finding who you are should not mean that you negate your passions. I think it's more like, you have a passion you are convinced it's what you should do, but actually there is something better you can do, something that you are blind to, and that is what she calls "who you are". And when you find that, you'll realise that this is what you've been looking for even when you were trying to follow your passion, this is what you should be doing, and it makes you come alive. At least this is how I choose to understand it. :)

[@bladeofSteele]

Thanks. I really needed to hear that.

[@MarcoSanderCoaching]

The punchline of life is how you feel about yourself when you're by yourself!!

[@rajaskulkarni9374]

What I'm good at : Nothing. I have anxiety and I avoid any situation that increases my Anxiety. What people say I'm good at : I've never shown my true self enough to people so I don't believe anything that anyone says about me. What's holding me back : money.

[@Ed-fp9rx]

Investing in yourself is the best investment, perhaps look into a career coach that's what im going to do

[@surabhikhusar3298]

I'll not forget these three valuable questions for life for sure !! Thanks a lot.

[@axlrosea675]

hiding something at work - well, there's always parts of oneself anywhere one doesn't show. it is not necessarily bad to concentrate on the job at hand

[@GIRLYISMS]

I have always been told I am good at art and English. I love teaching and It brings me joy. I also LOVE dentistry and doctors however if it wasn’t for what’s holding me back, would I really? What holds me ? Money. I have always been below average money wise and I cannot express to you how much I wanna make my family proud. They support me a little too much and give me freedom so I’m very grateful haha, but I wanna make them think their decision was good. I CANT be something related to arts because would it make me money? I CANT teach because, would it make me money? I have bounced between the thought of being an art teacher for a long time but would it make me money like being a dentist or doctor? I’m worried they won’t be proud. They would say they are but would the disappointment of them finding out I’m changing my mind be too much?

[@emm._.]

*What am I good at?* 
 ● Drawing ● Making in Depth Character backgrounds of either made or existing characters ● Giving Advice even if I don't know much about the issue ● A peacemaker ● Observant ● Very Curious, I ask many questions about things that interest me. Like, if there are missing details in an article, I sometimes find myself down a rabbit hole of associated topics and wind up learning a lot of information. It's stuff I can't utilize most of the time since it's very situational. ● When I put my mind to it, I can get something done faster than I would, taking it laid back. Ex: In HS, we had to write an analysis of a part of a book and answer a question. I once wrote a 3-4 page mini paper answering the provided 4 questions and wrote a significant amount of detail. ● I can describe a character very well, even if that character's personality isn't fleshed out.

 ● I'm compassionate; I have moments where I can be angry and hurtful, but most of the time, I help people when they need it. Usually, a classmate. Especially when they ask for help doing something or want criticism. ● Taking in information about things that I find interesting. I've spent hours watching videos, hunting down stories from people to feed my curiosity about the topic. ● I like resolving my issues and only seek help if the situation is unresolved. 
 ● Considerate, I make choices that benefit me and whoever is involved. I want to help my parents, but I want to be happy with myself. So, I try to work around that.

 *What do people tell me I'm good at?* ● Drawing, sometimes the younger artists I meet ask me for help figuring out things like Perspective or Anatomy. It's a good feeling I enjoy. ● Writing, my English teacher has complimented my work before. Also a few others I barely remember... 
(8th Bullet point in "What am I good at") ● Giving Advice/ Criticism ● Rambling on and on about things I know about. ● Coming up with ideas, not drawing ideas but plot and story ideas for games and pre-existing stories. *What's holding me back?* ● Public Speaking, I have a hard time talking in person. Specifically with adults. ● Finding a sustainable Career that I can live off of and feel satisfied doing. ● My memory, I tend to forget things that I subconsciously mark as unimportant despite it being VERY important. (Like a deadline)
 ● My Confidence, I don't know myself well enough to feel comfortable telling people who I am. How do I tackle a Job Interview where they ask me questions about myself and the job if I don't know myself well enough? ● Failing, I don't like the bitter taste of failure. What if I can't get back on my feet? ● My self-worth tells me I'm not good enough for things; it's part of the confidence issue but more concentrated on my feelings about myself.

 Finding yourself isn't impossible. It's coming to terms with that person that's hard. Everyone wants to be excellent, so they hold themselves to high standards. If you discover that the person you are isn't all you dreamt of being, accepting that can be something people handle differently. Some people try to force it and pretend to be someone they're not; others take it in and ground themselves as that person.

[@anamariahernandezguerrero722]

What am I good at? - I think that I am good in the manual things and in being related to the others. - What do others tell me I'm good at? - To interact with other people and I am a creative person. -What is holding you back? - Nothing, I try to be doing what I always like.

[@madisondeitch8053]

For someone with ADHD, passion and interest is also a requirement, but I see what she's saying

[@mysmirandam.6618]

I felt that

[@leahnadu4138]

Ashley is such a gift to me. She has changed my life. I worked with her at the beginning of the year and she's fantastic. I feel blessed to have met her. She helped me with clarity and my self- awareness. Check her out online, she's great!

[@AshleyStahlCareers]

+Leah Nadu I could say the same to YOU!!! Really honored to have been of service and so grateful for your kind words!!

[@tanisajahan]

Can you help me with my job hunting please?

[@acharich]

CoachAshleyStahl - wow, I'm curious about what u think of the comments on here.. Do u think many are being too harsh & cynical, or that there's something in what they're saying..? 💭💭💭

[@sosueme4]

WOW!! I am literally trying to figure out what I want to do with my life and was trying to think of a dream job. I am learning the hard way that you have to find what you love to do before you can find your dream job. this video was very helpful. Thank you.

[@YuliaOvchinnikova]

What you love is more than what you are (right now). What you love is what you can be. What you are is much more. What you are is where you want to be. Everything is possible.

[@phoenixj369]

What I would have liked to ask Ashley is now that she found what she is, does she love it? Does what you are good at define what you are?

[@denizbesikcioglu]

TEDx = infomercial heaven..

[@ismellcakes1]

I actually really liked this video. It helped me gain a lot of answers about myself and my real skills rather then just what i thought I wanted to look like. Ok so she is a career coach who has a course she is marketing.. that is her job, which she has chosen, and that is the worth she has assigned to her service, which is pretty admirable. Its a video designed by a professional giving free advice. Constructive criticism is fine, but why people feel the need to be so mean is beyond me. Ashley, ignore the haters, they're just a product of the internet, I personally found this video brilliant and I recommended it to a few of my friends. GOOD ADVICE BY SOMEONE WHO KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE TAKING ABOUT IN MY OPINION.

[@homesteadersunlimited3453]

I've had 2 careers, one I loved but not the hours, 70 hours a week on the road never home. I"m some one who loves to be home with my family and projects. My 2nd career I could do but it was really stressful and I didn't really have an affinity for it. My third career is going to be in something related to Psychology and counseling. I've been told to become a photographer, but it's my outlet, I don't want to own my own business. Just keep at it and me realistic, take advantage of employer offered tuition reimbursement, explore life and try new things. Have a positive attitude and show up. The rest will fall into place.

[@maxmoore8631]

This is a great TED talk, year ago I stumbled upon this and the "Year you get your dream job" seminar. I can't be more thankful for Ashley Stahl, Scott Dinsmore & Ryan Niessen for changing my career and my life in general! Seminar was little pricey but well worth it!

[@maxmoore8631]

Oh, here is the link for the seminar (bit.ly/1QDgSZy) if you are interested!

[@alexanderlopez9478]

+Max Moore Yea man, the "YYGYDJ" is a great seminar. I think that price is right for the amount of value you get from it!

[@as1948]

I know you commented 6 years ago but I’m curious to know what you’re doing now in terms of career

[@marcelhaik8035]

I was never told to find my passion(MUSIC piano/drums/vocals). I was told to play it safe in order to make a living- that advice ended up being a disaster.

[@Assyla_555]

This was actually really helpful. Thank you Ashley.

[@ZackGomez198035]

This actually explains that the career that we are passionate about is not the actual career that we should pursue. I am taking a strategies for college success class and it has been very beneficial.

[@Skelt11277]

But the thing is nobody tells me I'm good at anything. I don't consider myself super talented at anything. For a long time I wanted to be a 911 responder like a fireman or a police man. But I don't think that's the right job for me but I do want to help people.

[@kushsharma3798]

This was a great talk. The key thing to take away from this is that we need just get any job in our passion. Even when we are passionate about something, we can find a way to make into a career which will be more fulfilling.

[@john78tv]

Damn!!! In 6 weeks, she went to 90 events, had coffee with 200 people and only got 3 job offers out of all of that.... Earlier, when she said her job took over her life, I believe her... and some people have jobs that take up too much of their time that it's preventing them from reaching their personal goals.

[@mementomartina]

I'm getting so much more value from the comments section rather than from the talk. Thanks guys!

[@Advocateprasadcherukuri]

Excellent insight

[@CBReptiles1]

You can do anything you are good at; if they’re hiring! Chris Rock

[@dhs7279]

for anyone looks for those three questions: What am I good at What people say I am good at what is holding me back

[@CareerAwarenessChannel]

Career vs Business, people may have passion but they may not have skills. What others tell about you is not important for every one. It may change with persons. Do not have to choose career based on others recommendations. It is you who exactly know what is in your mind and works betters for you.

[@amirsamir302]

So we give up what we love for what what we are good at? why can't we be good at what we love? i think she loves being a career coach, and that is why she is one, maybe she thought that she would love working at the pentagon but when there she realized that she didn't love it, so she became a career coach, if tomorrow she realized that she is very good accounting, better than a career coach, but she doesn't love being an accountant, it doesn't make her satisfied, but she is much better accountant than a career coach, would she switch careers? So her advice, do what you are good at, not what you love is incorrect

[@horchata831]

+Amir Samir You are correct.

[@KDD8]

+Amir Samir "Hire a career coach." - TedX speech as a promotional thing ahahah how sneaky

[@arturogomeztagle9250]

+Amir Samir that hypothetical situation isn't reality. She also said "do what you are not JUST what you love." So if you love what you are, then do that.

[@puffer1624]

+Amir Samir I was confused at first too but I think she meant to not do what you love IF your not good at it, like her with the gun but passionate about being a spy. I mean, just like you said she is good at AND passionate about being a career coach. So, from what I understand, you can't be a good doctor if you can't stand blood and death; even IF your passionate about it. But if your good with children and are passionate about helping people then working with UNICEF, programs to help children have a better life, or something of the sort could be good for you. This is at least how I understood the video.

[@amirsamir302]

+Amir Samir My point is that she loved giving career advice, she just didn't realize it, she thought she will love working at the pentagon, but she didn't, she didn't try to get rid of the fear of guns, she just left, she realized she really wasn't passionate about it, and she used to give career advice because she was passionate about it, so she did what she loved, being a career coach, she happens to be good at it because she has been "practicing" for a while, she wants to get better at it, because she loves it

[@fareehaxoxo8568]

1. Something which you find interesting and feels effortless because despite the effort it really contributes to you in some way and you feel accomplished 2. In any interaction in your life you had ,out of many, someone might have appreciated or benifitted from your certain quality 3. What holds you back ? Fear of perfectionism? Perfectionism is unrealistic and nothing is perfect . It's about consistent effort to meet the need

[@charleshurstreinvention3959]

Assessing is actually not hard. A few weeks ago I told my subscribers how to know if it is time to change careers or just a venue in the one you have. So now you know you have to change careers completely. What do you do? How do you decide? In a nutshell I advised to first list all sectors of work fields. IE Medical, social work, law enforcement, business, technology, trades. That gives you the general interest of where you want to be. For example--all business for me is out. BUT, you may love the art of the deal. Then you list the jobs in that sector. IE trades ---electrician plumber mechanic. Business--marketing, finance, stockbroker. Medical--nurse, doctor, physical therapist. This seems simple but it works. You just narrow down sector then narrow down all jobs in that sector. Then you make your plan how to get there. Most people when they want to change careers just go into panic mode. The formula above makes it simple and stress free to see what you want to do next for forty hours a week. Hope this helps---Charles

[@marciatorresguerra1744]

It is hard to pin point what you are good at without stillness. Thank you for sharing help me to think about you what I really like. 😊

[@jena_rese]

Going to college soon and I have absolutely no clue what I want to do. I’m interested in a few things, but I don’t know that they would be good as anything more than a hobby

[@fireice5284]

Just like me same problem and couldn't find good one

[@mystichawk478]

Great video thanks for sharing .

[@investorsingh6734]

what i am good at working hard towards a goal - what is holding me back money,mentorship, time, compition

[@thatsmellsdelicious5146]

What am I good at? I am good at presentation, time management, leading and managing What people tell me I am good at? Presentation, public speaking, life advice, solving problems What is holding me back? Fear of burning out on the job; lack of work-life balance

[@csmith1]

"I felt like I was holding death in my hands" To translate that into English "I felt like I was holding freedom in my hands"

[@NinaNina-qr2pf]

*What am I good at* - Drawing, using my hands/fixing things *What ppl tell me I'm good at* - Drawing, fixing things *What's holding me back* - My shyness, me not knowing what I ACTUALLY have a passion for or want to do. Many people tell me to be an architect and I like Technical Graphic (which I do in school), but I don't know... I like the drawing part but do I really want to be making buildings and stuff?? I like animals, I like babies, I like riddles, I like drawing -But how do I know which one should be my career path. My friend just decided she wants to be an obstetrician and I'm like "HoW dO You KNoW?!". I have to pick a college course soon and I am so confused..

[@sirmeurtrier6951]

children's book author would be good for you. You can draw animals and use riddles. Everything you love wrapped into one.

[@nak122297]

Graphic designer rather than architect?

[@aamershaikh9095]

A love her spontaneity at words

[@pratikshakamble2195]

Surely this is going to help me. Thank you Ashley

[@Philtoid]

Well im never getting that 9 minutes 51 seconds of my life back.

[@petergoeren73]

I don't know how to be helped and how I could get an authentic career like Ashley says. I've worked over 7 jobs over the 5 years, I live with chronic headache pain so I can't trust my thoughts (cause the motivation is to escape pain), and I'm living on a barbacking salary cause I live in a town where I can't get into advertising cause my experience isn't like everyone else's experience. Now I'm broke (loan payments), getting denied for jobs almost constantly, and I'm really struggling to grasp this message of paying for a career coach to get me to a stable place cause obviously I can't afford it. This is kinda why this talk makes me angry.

[@bmfitzgerald3]

You might consider a career in Web Development. Lots of opportunity, it's fun, and the money is good. Good luck with whatever you decide to pursue.

[@rassetmarketing8767]

Peter Goeren forget this talk and consider moving or working online.

[@bondguyfbai]

Hang in their Peter. What you are going thru will eventually turn. How do I know that? Because you are asking the questions about your career. Which means you are a fighter. This Ted Talk lady adds nothing to your (or my) world. She is just preying on people who are gullible.

[@jeffreyyoungblood7438]

you don't need a coach, you need a community. My advice is seek out mentors, and people in your community who are supportive, encouraging and focused and successful in their own lives. This can be hard to do, and if you can't find it locally, look online. Also, try changing your schedule to fit in down time for doing something fun and relaxing, and exercise. It's amazing how much that alone can help place you in a better mental state to see things clearly. Let me know if you need help getting motivated. I'll help if I can, having come from a similar place. But just remember, a journey is a collection of small steps, you can't just teleport to a better life.

[@GeralynStJoseph]

I understand the chronic headache, I was hit by a drunk driver 30 years ago and have a headache ever since. It's gotten worse as I get older. I highly recommend seeing a neurologist. Demand it. It took me 3 months of pushing my primary care doc and then 6 months of waiting, but it was worth it. You can message me if you would like more info. Chronic pain is no joke, look after yourself. Blessings!

[@brendashenda4249]

Very good. And a beautiful voice. You have honesty and conviction. I'm going to try and answer those questions.

[@user-jf6uy4uv3s]

what i think i'm good at math,hardware,business,arguments what they think i'm good at math,physics,calculus,arguments,being practical in life,history what is holding me back:money,fear of wrong decision, fear of faliure, communication and social skill,

[@adiyogi9705]

Selling a product to people by talking that she was a former Pentagon employee and currently has moved to Career coaching...This is just a 10 minute commercial for her business... pushing you toward hiring a career coach without giving much information. More like a marketing gimic

[@MonikaWoodstraveler]

You sound like you have not fulfilled your purpose. This is not what I get out of this at all. She most likely has all the work she needs. Being a coach is about motivating people to do what they are intrinsically capable of. Your cynicism is a bit sad, I hope you can release some of that.

[@eson3d]

She is the only one to link her website or shout out her business in all the talks I have ever seen.

[@barfgreenrulz]

She did a great job at it too

[@rossmarino2776]

Who you are changes throughout time. What you love changes throughout time. What people tell you you are good at depends on mastery you either develop from childhood or develop throughout your career, your life or throughout some significant time. If your parents teach you how to play the piano since you are a baby the most likely you will be a master pianist at an early age and people will tell you you are good at playing the piano. But that doesn't mean that is your true passion or who you are. You just happen to play the piano well. I think this speaker is missing one most important aspect in all of this: JOY. She missed the question: WHAT DO YOU TRULY (MOST AND ABSOLUTELY HONEST) ENJOY DOING? If what you truly enjoy doing TODAY matches what you think you do well and it matches what people tell you you do well then you are on the right track but you are then missing SECOND KEY COMPONENT: make a living out of that: MAKE MONEY! For me, the best lesson I've got on this subject came from a very young snowboarder I happened to sit next to on a lift on the way up to the mountain on a ski trip. He said: DO WHAT YOU LOVE DOING AND FIND A WAY TO MAKE MONEY (NOT JUST EARN A SALARY) OUT OF WHAT YOU LOVE DOING. IF YOU DO WHAT YOU TRULY LOVE DOING AND YOU ALSO FIND A WAY TO MAKE MONEY OUT OF THAT ACTIVITY YOU LOVE THEN YOU ARE BOUND TO BE SUCCESSFUL AND HAPPY.

[@mustardalilseed6448]

Wow this is amazing. Helps so much!

[@elsievelsales7893]

1. Im good at drawing and im hardworking 2. People around me tell me im good at explaining and hardworking 3. Im easy to be distracted and moody

[@CareyDigital]

Worthwhile listen! Inspiring and empowering talk for millennials like myself who are often blinded by our passions and forget 'who we are' Thanks Ashely.