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What kids know about motivation (and we don't) | Betsy Blackard | TEDxClaremontGraduateUniversity
TEDx Talks· 2025-11-11 18:00
Core Concept: The Running Leap - The central idea is that children approach challenges like crossing a stream, needing to back up to gain momentum for a successful "running leap" [4][5] - This "backing up" isn't avoidance but a necessary phase for building confidence and preparing for bigger challenges [4][14] - Caregivers should recognize and support this process instead of forcing children into challenges they aren't ready for [10][29] Practical Application - When a child seems to be avoiding a challenge, observe how they are preparing themselves and support their process [10][28] - Acknowledge the child's process to build self-trust and provide them with a tool for future challenges [22][23] - Avoid forcing a child into a leap they aren't ready for, as it can lead to resentment, decreased confidence, and a need for even more extensive backing up [20][21] Intrinsic Motivation - Focus on fostering intrinsic motivation, trusting that children will return to the challenge when they feel ready [18][19] - Children are programmed to succeed and will come back to the challenge when they feel ready [11][19] - If a kid wants something, they'll never give up, no matter how long it takes [19]
Formula for Happiness; Joy of Gifting | Yuan Zhi Teng | TEDxGerman European School Singapore Youth
TEDx Talks· 2025-10-02 15:24
Core Argument - The presentation introduces a formula for happiness: Happiness = Altruism - Expectation + Personal Meaning * Frequency of Acts, suggesting that gifting, when approached correctly, can be a significant source of happiness [2][10] - The key to happiness through gifting lies in minimizing expectations and maximizing personal meaning and frequency [10][11][12][13] Psychological Insights - Gifting releases dopamine and oxytocin, contributing to feelings of happiness, and the joy of others can feed one's own through emotional cognition [4][5] - Expectation in gifting can be detrimental, leading to disappointment if not reciprocated, highlighting the importance of intrinsic motivation over extrinsic motivation [7][8] Practical Application - True altruism involves giving without expecting anything in return, focusing on the joy of the act itself [11] - Meaningful gifts are thoughtful and reflect an understanding of the recipient's personality and interests [12] - Frequent small gestures can compound into significant happiness, emphasizing the importance of consistent acts of kindness [13] Broader Implications - The presentation challenges the notion of obligatory gifting during holidays, suggesting it can diminish the joy of giving [9] - The formula can be applied to oneself, emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-gifting [14]