Monday Inspiration #1

I think I was probably the last person to discover TED Talks on the internet. But I love watching them. Sometimes I'll put on a TED Talk and then another, and then another... until my whole evening is gone! I watch TED Talks to learn about topics on which I know little, and on topics I want to broaden knowledge I already have. I highly recommend watching TED Talks that interest you.

I've decided that on Mondays I'm going to post something that inspired me from the week before. I hope that by sharing my "Monday Inspiration" you will be inspired to learn more about a topic that you're passionate about.

Today's Inspiration is a TED Talk that I found about the longest study on happiness, by Robert Waldinger. The study began in 1938 (he is not a founder of the study...), and follows the subjects' lives for 75 years.

- The first lesson of the survey is that loneliness is toxic-- and fostering connection leads to longer lives.
- The second lesson is that the quality of your relationships does matter. Having good relationships has a major positive impact. "The people who were most satisfied in their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80." Wow.
- Finally the third lesson is that good relationships protect our brains. Being in a secure relationship with someone you trust leads to stronger brains and greater brain health.

Sure, these results aren't that groundbreaking, but they're proven to be true. While fame and wealth are what we strive for, building our relationships leads to strong positive results that chasing money does not.

This TED Talk inspired me to continue working at the relationships I have with my family and friends, since it will lead to a better life and greater happiness as I get older. It reminded me of what's important in life-- not money, not fame, but happiness and positive relationships.