So back in the year 2013, I graduated with a bachelor's degree in engineering and it was such a proud moment for me and my family. I chose a field of specialization that I genuinely believe was going to make me future ready. So I diligently studied it and believed that that was indeed my path going forward.And it had been for so many of my friends, my seniors. It was a tried and tested formula, a formula that guaranteed success. So I thought to myself, well, I had it all mapped out, a career as an electroni ...

I want you all to close your eyes and imagine with me what I looked like in the seventh grade. I know it's a it's a bold request, but just go with it for a second. glasses, braces, full mustache, and one very specific dream to make middle school show choir.I had practiced my heart out, jazz hands, ready, and I was fully and emotionally prepared to make my Broadway debut in a Texas middle school gym. Spoiler alert, I didn't make it. And when you're about 12, 13 years old, not making middle school show choir ...

[Music] [Applause] When you think of success, maybe you think of hoisting a Lombardi trophy after winning a Super Bowl. Maybe you think about getting that big promotion they'd work so hard to earn at work. Or maybe you think about having the biggest house with the fastest car in the garage. Or maybe you think about standing here on a TEDx stage telling your story.You see, when you hear about all these levels of success, though, what you don't think about is the adversity that it took someone to overcome to ...

Overcoming Adversity & Building Resilience - The speaker's story highlights the power of resilience and a "never give up" attitude in overcoming societal expectations and personal challenges [2][3][7] - Early experiences of being underestimated and rejected fueled the speaker's determination to succeed [1][9] - Seeking help and support from others is a crucial tool for overcoming obstacles [12] Entrepreneurial Journey & Business Strategy - The speaker started an entrepreneurial journey in 2013, facing rejection and underestimation but driven by a grit to win [9] - The company initially focused on underserved areas within intellectual property, specifically startups, universities, and memes [14] - The company chose to build a legacy business rather than a short-term venture [14] - The company grew from zero to over 300 team members [14] Lessons Learned & Future Vision - Rejection should be seen as redirection, and individuals should focus on self-improvement rather than external judgment [17] - Resilience is more important than resources; building a network is crucial for success [17][18] - Individuals should compete with themselves, focusing on personal growth and future potential [18] - Fearlessness and boldness are key to creating a legacy [19]

Key Principles for Founders - Desperation repels investors and others, signaling risk [5] - Contentment attracts capital and opportunities, as founders building independently signal confidence [6] - Handling rejection with resilience demonstrates potential for success [6] Strategies for Success - Focus on building something undeniable to attract helpers and funding organically [9][10] - Detachment, not as passivity but as inward power, allows opportunities to arise [11] - Embrace the present and stop chasing future outcomes to create space for opportunities [12] - Believe in a real chance of success, even if not 100% certain [8] Mindset and Action - Avoid performative actions and focus on real calm and progress [7] - Turn dreams into tangible code or hardware [14] - Look inward for design space, code, character, and conviction [13]

Success Factors - Economic and romantic success requires resilience and persistence in the face of rejection [1] - Individuals who consistently ask for opportunities (money, jobs, dates) are more likely to achieve greater wealth and find a higher-quality partner [1] Risk Management - Fearlessness in pursuing opportunities is crucial for outperforming peers [1]