TEDxEdmonton was more than an opportunity to sharing ideas worth spreading. TedxEdmonton is a movement changing the landscape of assumptions, challenges, and life! There were so many lessons to share.

Some of the lessons we learn come from the most amazing places. There are some lessons we know and then there are some lessons that keep repeating themselves as a theme or pattern in our lives. Whatever that may be for you, know that the message is for you or one you must disseminate among the masses.

Lessons are gifts  that come in all shapes and sizes.

1. Everyone has a story. Each individual that you encounter in a day has a story that will inspire you or motivate you in some way. You have a story and people are waiting to hear it. Be bold and gather the courage to share your voice.

2. Do not judge a person based on their age, appearance, title or list of accomplishments. See each person for who they are and what they contribute to life. Come from a place of curiosity and learn what motivates people and seek to understand their perspective. You can learn more about their purpose and how you can help them reach some of their goals but also to be a form of encouragement along their journey. People need to be seen, heard, and understood for who they are.

3. The extraordinary is found in the ordinary. If you look at situations and circumstances, you might be led to believe some people have everything that they have because it was given to them. However, when you take time to listen and be present with someone’s story you can prevent yourself from following throughout and perhaps making the same mistakes, you can learn what it is you need to do, and you can develop a humanistic perspective and appreciate where people are coming from. Listening to the stories that were shared made me want to have a conversation with each one of them and ask them more about how they pulled through or what had brought them to the idea and where they are now.

3. Everyone faces challenges and uncertainties. Although some people present the picture perfect life, every person has faced challenges and obstacles that have made them who they are today. Without those challenges, a person does not gain insight and understanding to their own purpose. Challenges and reflections are what I refer to as those defining moments that help us step into who we have yet to become.

4. Take a chance and roll the dice of opportunity. I received an email about a TEDxEdmonton Speaker Dinner in my inbox and thought it would be cool to meet all the speakers and hear more about who they are. I kept thinking about what is it I could share that would be worth spreading and make an impact. I played around with the idea and then my mind had a different agenda that it played around with. Finally, I came to – why not and pressed SEND! I won.  TEDxEdmonton Speaker Dinner Winner

The theme For Certain: Uncertainty for TEDxEdmonton was so appropriate for what individuals are facing today. From the moment we wake up, uncertainty kicks in. I want to commend all the organizers and volunteers for working so hard and putting together a phenomenal event! You have made Edmonton proud!!! It was a pleasure to be surrounded by incredible minds and sharing ideas worth spreading.

What story would you share?