Why mental fitness beats perfection | Dr Pretty Basra | TEDxDoncaster
Dr Pretty Basra delivers a powerful and practical talk that reframes failure not as a setback, but as a critical driver of growth. Drawing on her clinical and professional insights, she explores what happens in the brain when we fail and why those uncomfortable moments can, if harnessed well, make us mentally stronger and more adaptable.At the heart of her talk is the F.A.I.L. Mental Fitness Framework. Face It, Accept It, Integrate It, Leap Forward. Through this transformative yet straightforward model, Pretty shows how anyone can use failure to build the mental resilience needed to thrive in a fast-changing world. Her message is clear and empowering: you’ve got to get it wrong before you get it right.Perfection isn’t the goal; flourishing is. I’m a qualified optician, seasoned entrepreneur, and business mentor with over 20 years of experience in the optical and healthcare industries. I own a successful optical practice and lead multiple businesses that empower women in business and healthcare to grow with confidence.
My career hasn’t been linear; I’ve faced setbacks, detours, and moments that tested my confidence. But each challenge shaped the leader and mentor I am today.Alongside my professional work, I host a podcast, speak on leadership and entrepreneurship, and mentor female healthcare professionals who are ready to step into their full potential.When I’m not working, I’m a mum of three boys, a travel lover (with a soft spot for Santorini and Mykonos), and an annual Chanel earring collector. I’m also known for my love of R&B music, pearls, and pasta! This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 10:49The Art of Pivoting Towards Purpose | Maureen Kyere | TEDxAshesiUniversityMaureen discusses identity as a continuous process of reinvention. She inspires listeners to embrace change and courage as pathways to becoming their fullest selves. Maureen Kyere is a dedicated lawyer and women’s rights advocate whose work reflects a deep commitment to justice and empowerment. With her passion for amplifying women’s voices, Maureen has consistently engaged in conversations that encourage growth, resilience, and boldness. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:23Blurry Lines: Building in the Age of AI | Prince Tagoe | TEDxAshesiUniversityPrince examines how AI blurs traditional roles and expertise. He highlights Africa’s opportunity to lead as creators in a tech-driven world. Prince Tagoe is the Founder and CEO of GradeRun, an AI-powered exam simulation platform that helps students prepare smarter through personalised testing, adaptive feedback, and intelligent study support. Prince works at the intersection of education technology and market strategy, driven by his conviction that Africa can create solutions with global impact. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx