NOTE FROM TED: While some may find this helpful as a complementary approach, please do not look to this talk for mental health advice and seek professional help if you are struggling. This talk only represents the speaker’s personal views and understanding of emotions, mindset, and the brain, which some viewers may find to be stigmatizing. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfIn his TEDxWilmingtonSalon talk, David Jacob explores the hidden power of choice in shaping our lives. Far from a typical motivational speech, this transformative talk unpacks three essential questions that reveal how our reactions, beliefs, and sense of identity silently direct our reality. With clarity and urgency, David challenges us to move from autopilot to intention—and reclaim authorship over our own stories. David Jacob is a master sales trainer and psychological strategist who has helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs, SaaS founders, and sales professionals double their prices, close with confidence, and build sales systems that never saturate. With over a decade of experience selling everything from luxury goods to high-ticket services, David’s approach goes beyond scripts and tactics—he rewires your mindset using proven psychological principles and timeless sales strategies. As the founder of a results-driven training platform, he equips clients to break mental blocks, sell authentically, and consistently close. 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

What does it take to turn a disability into world-breaking strength? Devendra Jhajharia shares his extraordinary journey from a small village to the global Paralympic stage. This is a story of grit, defiance, and breaking every boundary. This talk will leave you rethinking what’s truly possible. Devendra Jhajharia is a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, world record holder, and recipient of Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, and Arjuna Award. He has redefined possibilities in sports and beyond. His journey of perseverance, resilience, and excellence continues to inspire millions. He shares his extraordinary story of breaking barriers and achieving the impossible. 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

What does it take for a 12-year-old girl to discover her power in a kitchen? In this deeply personal talk, Chef Aanal Kotak shares her journey from passion to power, breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to lead as a woman in the culinary world. Her story is emotional, bold, and unforgettable. Chef Anal Kotak is an award-winning culinary entrepreneur, MasterChef India star, and the visionary behind The Secret Kitchen & Southak. With a passion for blending tradition and innovation, she has redefined Indian cuisine through gourmet experiences and modern flavors. She is also the author of Secrets of a Professional Kitchen and the recipient of the Women Achiever Award 2024. Through her expertise and creativity, she continues to push culinary boundaries and inspire the next generation of chefs. 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

From a thriving IT career to pioneering a plastic-free revolution, she is on a mission to transform how we live. She talks about her lifelong journey in the past, from her childhood to this very moment. Ridhi Singhal is the founder of TintBox, a conscious lifestyle brand revolutionizing menstrual wellness with sustainable, plastic-free products. A designer by training and a changemaker by spirit, Ridhi stepped away from the conventional career path to address the often-neglected issue of period care with empathy and innovation. Her bold vision and impact-driven approach earned national attention when she appeared on Shark Tank India, where she impressed the panel with TintBox’s mission and potential. Through her work, Ridhi has empowered thousands to make informed, eco-conscious choices and has sparked crucial conversations around menstruation, body literacy, and sustainability. With TintBox, she champions a future where design meets dignity, and better periods build stronger communities. 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

What if all your accomplishments were just masks hiding a wounded inner child? In this deeply introspective talk, Punit G unpacks success, identity, and emotional healing - Raw, vulnerable, and powerfully human. From veterinary medicine to global business leadership, Dr. Punit’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As former CEO of ArthNirmiti and CXO at Choice International Ltd, he has redefined the landscape of business and innovation. An IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, former VP at OYO, and a two-time TEDx speaker, he embodies the spirit of adaptability and success. Dr. Punit’s talk will explore how embracing uncertainty can open doors to unexpected and transformative opportunities. 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

In this candid and compelling TEDx talk, marketing trailblazer Rekha Rao, Founder & CEO of OON, unpacks a journey rooted in childlike obsession, challenged by conventional expectations, and shaped by unwavering self-belief. From cutting out ads at age 10 to building the world’s first women-led integrated marketing collective, Rekha’s story is one of courage, creativity, and relentless curiosity. She shares how early dreams often collide with societal norms—and why asking “why not?” instead of just “why” can rewire your life’s trajectory.Rekha’s path wasn’t linear. She faced academic setbacks, career detours, and dismissive mentors. Yet each stumble became a stepping stone. Whether navigating the high-stakes world of advertising, shifting into client-facing roles without prior experience, or pulling off a national campaign derailed by tragedy, Rekha learned to lead through resilience, not rules. Her talk is filled with practical wisdom: start small (even with a scrapbook), embrace redirections, and let your work—not politics—speak for you.At its heart, this talk is a powerful call for young dreamers and professionals alike: You don’t need to fit the mold to make a mark. You just need the audacity to ask: “Why not me?” Rekha Rao is the Founder and CEO of OON—the world’s first women’s collective providing integrated marketing communications solutions. With a powerhouse background in brand storytelling, reputation management, crisis response, and strategic content, she has led award-winning campaigns across global, regional, and local markets. Under her leadership, OON has earned 125+ accolades, becoming a force in shaping narratives that matter. Rekha’s mission goes beyond marketing—she’s creating space for women to lead, collaborate, and redefine the communications landscape with creativity, empathy, and 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