TED Talks Daily To overcome challenges, stop comparing yourself to others | Dean Furness
8 snips
May 18, 2020 
Dean Furness, a wheelchair athlete and analytic consultant, shares his incredible journey of resilience after a life-altering accident. He discusses the importance of stopping comparisons with others and focusing on personal growth. Dean emphasizes redefining one’s 'personal average' and celebrating small victories to foster a healthier mindset. His experiences in wheelchair racing and tackling challenges illustrate how embracing progress over setbacks can lead to triumphs and a renewed sense of identity. A motivational listen!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Life-Altering Accident
- Dean Furness's life changed after a bale of hay fell on him, shattering his vertebrae and resulting in paralysis.
- He describes the initial shock and the realization that his personal average had been reset.
Letting Go of the Past
- Furness realized that comparing his current abilities to his past abilities was frustrating and hindering his progress.
- He had to let go of his previous identity and focus on building a new personal average.
Rehab Overexertion
- During rehab, Furness overexerted himself in a weightlifting competition, leaving him unable to use his arms for days.
- This taught him the importance of not comparing himself to others, even those in similar situations.