Ideas worth spreading

Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness

1,794,287 views |

Michele L. Sullivan |

TEDWomen 2016

• October 2016

We all go through challenges -- some you can see, most you can't, says Michele L. Sullivan. In a talk about perspective, Sullivan shares stories full of wit and wisdom and reminds us that we're all part of each other's support systems. "The only shoes you can walk in are your own," she says. "With compassion, courage and understanding, we can walk together, side by side."

We all go through challenges -- some you can see, most you can't, says Michele L. Sullivan. In a talk about perspective, Sullivan shares stories full of wit and wisdom and reminds us that we're all part of each other's support systems. "The only shoes you can walk in are your own," she says. "With compassion, courage and understanding, we can walk together, side by side."

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Learn more about the power of partnership on Together.Stronger., which was founded on the belief that partnership drives progress and that if we want to achieve our goals, we must work together.

About the speaker

Michele L. Sullivan

Michele L. Sullivan

Social innovator

See speaker profile

Michele L. Sullivan is known for her sustainable and collaborative approach to philanthropic investing.

Malala Yousafzai | Little, Brown and Company, 2013 | Book

I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

The story of Malala Yousafzai is a testament to the power of one person to overcome all odds and become an advocate for change. Born into a society that undervalues their daughters and does not prioritize education for women, Malala and her family showed an immense amount of bravery in championing education for girls. After she was attacked by the Taliban for speaking out, Malala has become a global leader in the fight to educate women everywhere. Her message and perseverance teaches us the importance of voicing our opinions when we need to, and working to empower those that cannot empower themselves.

Randy Pausch | Hyperion, 2008 | Book

The Last Lecture

"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand" – Randy Pausch
Faced with a terminal diagnosis, Randy Pausch delivers a message of hope – of overcoming obstacles, helping others and making the most of every moment because we never know how much time we have left. What we learn from Randy is how to live – how to make the most of the hand we are dealt, and how to help others to make the most of theirs as well. His message is an inspiration, and his last lecture is one that will resonate with everyone.

Laura Schroff and Alex Tresniowski | Howard Books, 2012 | Book

An Invisible Thread

During a time of increased divisiveness, this story is a heart-warming reminder that we are all equal, and that we can all lift each other up – no matter how different we may be. Laura Schroff was a successful executive that was drawn to an 11-year old homeless boy on the streets of New York. What started as one lunch became a friendship that spanned three decades and empowered that boy to get off the streets, grow up and work to help underprivileged children, like the boy he once was. This story teaches us that one act of kindness can result in a cycle of positive changes for years to come.

Caroline Casey, TED Talk | Watch

"Looking Past Limits"

Challenging perceptions – and revealing details of her extraordinary life – Caroline Casey proves that we must think outside of the limits we believe we have and push ourselves towards greatness. Her story is as inspirational as it is thought-provoking.

Learn more

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Learn more about the power of partnership on Together.Stronger., which was founded on the belief that partnership drives progress and that if we want to achieve our goals, we must work together.