TED Talks Daily TED Talks Daily Book Club: Why change is so scary — and how to unlock its potential | Maya Shankar (re-release)
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Oct 19, 2025 
Maya Shankar, a cognitive scientist and the host of A Slight Change of Plans, dives into the complexities of unexpected life changes. She discusses how such changes can feel threatening, highlighting the fear of uncertainty and loss. Sharing personal stories, Maya introduces three insightful questions to help reframe our perspectives on transformation. By illustrating how change can enhance capabilities and redefine values, she encourages listeners to embrace the opportunities that come with life’s unpredictability.
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Violin Dream Ends Suddenly
- Maya Shankar lost her ability to play violin at 15 after permanently damaging the tendons in her hand while practicing.
- That injury ended her dream of being a concert violinist and set her on a new life path.
Change Can Expand You
- Unexpected change triggers uncertainty and feelings of loss but can also inspire internal transformation.
- Paying attention to how we internally change can reveal opportunities for growth rather than only contraction.
From Vision Loss To MasterChef
- Christine Ha became blind at 24 but relearned cooking using smell and sound cues and persisted practicing daily.
- She eventually won MasterChef and built a career as a world-renowned chef and restaurateur.