Never underestimate the power of grit | Assia Grazioli Venier | TEDxLUISS

Summary

In this inspiring speech, Oscar shares her personal journey of overcoming challenges such as dyslexia, a car accident, and navigating a male-dominated professional world. She encourages others to embrace disruption, value their unique abilities, and take risks in their careers. Drawing on her experience with companies like Spotify and Juventus Football Club, Oscar emphasizes the importance of authenticity, love for the work, and resilience in the face of setbacks. Ultimately, she urges individuals to find the right place to make their mark, write their name with confidence, and never let setbacks define their potential.

Takeaways

• 😀 Embrace setbacks and challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Life's detours help build resilience and empathy.
• 😀 Success is not about following a straight path but about finding your unique place where your strengths are valued.
• 😀 Authenticity is key in leadership and business. Passion for what you do is contagious and attracts loyalty from both colleagues and customers.
• 😀 The ability to disrupt and innovate is a valuable trait in the workplace. Refuse to accept 'no' and look for new ways to create value.
• 😀 Resilience is often a key to success. Overcoming personal difficulties, like dyslexia or physical setbacks, can strengthen determination and creativity.
• 😀 Take pride in your unique perspective and how it adds value. Your unconventional way of seeing the world is a strength, not a limitation.
• 😀 Companies should value employees for their core abilities, not just technical skills. Diverse strengths lead to stronger teams and better outcomes.
• 😀 Passion for your work leads to exceptional results. If you love what you do, it will reflect in your work and the success of the company.
• 😀 Do not underestimate the power of self-belief. Betting on yourself, even when others doubt you, can lead to extraordinary opportunities.
• 😀 Be open to new opportunities and connections. Sometimes the best career moves come from unexpected moments or encounters.
• 😀 Life teaches you to see failure as a learning experience, not a final destination. Embrace the lessons and keep moving forward with determination.

Q & A

What does the speaker mean by 'writing your name in the right place'?

The speaker encourages individuals to find where they truly belong and make their mark, whether it’s in the workplace, on key decisions, or in meaningful projects. This is tied to the idea of aligning one's passions and strengths with the right opportunities.

How does the speaker view disruption in life and business?

The speaker embraces disruption, seeing it not as a setback but as an opportunity for change and growth. She believes that disruptions, like overcoming dyslexia or experiencing career setbacks, can provide the necessary perspective to innovate and succeed.

What role does love play in business success, according to the speaker?

The speaker asserts that true love for a company’s mission is essential for success. Successful CEOs are deeply passionate about their business, and this genuine love is contagious, helping to build stronger connections with consumers and creating authentic brands.

What is the importance of embracing one’s core abilities?

The speaker emphasizes that individuals should not discount their natural talents and skills. These abilities are key to personal and professional success. Finding a work environment that values these core strengths is critical to achieving both fulfillment and success.

How does the speaker recommend handling self-doubt or imposter syndrome?

The speaker suggests that self-doubt can be overcome by staying true to oneself and understanding the unique value you bring. She believes that if you embrace your authentic self and continue to trust in your abilities, you will succeed regardless of external doubts.

What does the speaker mean by 'seeing backwards' in business?

By 'seeing backwards,' the speaker refers to her non-linear approach to understanding problems. She connects ideas in unconventional ways, relying on her unique perspective to find innovative solutions and create strategies that others might miss.

Why does the speaker encourage working in diverse teams?

The speaker believes that diverse teams, where individuals bring different perspectives and strengths, are crucial to success. She stresses the importance of combining creativity with operational skills to create effective strategies.

What is the significance of the story about the man with the hatbox?

The story illustrates the value of curiosity and unconventional thinking. By asking questions and noticing details others might miss, the speaker was able to form a meaningful connection, ultimately leading to an important professional opportunity.

How does the speaker define success?

The speaker defines success as the ability to embrace challenges, remain authentic, and stay true to one’s values. Success is not a straight path but a series of detours and lessons learned along the way, often involving personal growth and overcoming adversity.

What does the speaker say about women in business and their tendency to settle for less?

The speaker highlights that many women in business often undervalue their work and settle for less recognition or pay. She stresses that if you love your work and do it well, you should demand fair compensation and recognition, as this contributes to both personal and company success.