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TED Talks Daily

Want to get ahead at work? Risk the awkward moments | Henna Pryor

Aug 27, 2024
Henna Pryor, a workplace performance expert, emphasizes that embracing awkward moments can lead to significant personal and professional growth. She discusses the 'cringe chasm'—the gap in self-perception versus how others see us—and how crossing it opens doors to advancement. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the detrimental effects of an approval mindset and highlights the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone. Henna encourages listeners to seek out discomfort, as it’s a catalyst for self-betterment and authentic fulfillment.
17:05

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Embracing awkwardness can lead to personal growth by helping individuals overcome their fear of judgment and enhance resilience.
  • Shifting from an approval mindset to an improvement mindset allows for greater self-advocacy and pursuing personal goals authentically.

Deep dives

The Impact of Awkwardness on Growth

The desire for social approval, particularly during adolescence, can significantly limit personal and professional growth. Research shows that as individuals enter middle school, they become more self-conscious and start internalizing social norms, often leading to a heightened sense of awkwardness. This self-awareness can create a barrier to taking risks, as people often prioritize others' perceptions over their own growth. Embracing the discomfort of awkwardness, however, can foster resilience and open the door to valuable life experiences.

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