RESET: How to Reset Your Life | Fawn Germer | TEDxSevilleSq

Summary

The video describes Laura Lee's personal journey from a successful motivational speaker to coping with back-to-back tragic losses and depression. On the anniversary of her mother's death, realizing she was deeply depressed, Lee embarked on a solo trip walking the length of her Florida county's coastline over two weeks to 'reset' herself. She found the solitude clarifying and empowering. Lee advocates creating your own 'reset' experience through challenging adventures, which could be travel, art, volunteering - whatever provides meaning. She movingly shows life is unpredictable; prioritize what matters now instead of waiting.

Takeaways

• 😢 Grief and loss unravelled the speaker's life in 2013 after a breakup, her mom's death, her dad's death, and financial struggles.
• 👣 The speaker walked the length of her Florida county for 2 weeks to reset herself and overcome her depression.
• 🚶‍♀️ The long walk gave her solitude, fresh air, and physical exertion to clear her mind and regain hope and joy.
• 🧠 Clearing your mind through challenging activities can provide the mental space for solutions and clarity to emerge.
• ⏰ Don't postpone meaningful activities - life is unpredictable, so make time for what matters now.
• 🚴‍♀️ Tailor your own reset by choosing an immersive activity matched to your needs and interests.
• 🌅 Solitude, nature and open spaces help provide perspective on what really matters.
• 🏃‍♀️ Taking the first step is key - you don't have to tackle everything at once to make progress.
• 🎯 Completing your reset activity marks the turning point - you'll know when you're done.
• 😊 Happiness is a choice - if you're not feeling it, reset yourself to reboot your outlook.

Q & A

What triggered the narrator's journey of self-discovery and healing?

The narrator's journey began after a series of personal tragedies in 2013, including a breakup and the deaths of both parents, followed by financial stress from unexpected expenses related to a new house.

How did the narrator's profession contrast with their personal life during the period of struggle?

Despite being a motivational speaker whose job was to inspire happiness in others, the narrator was internally struggling with depression and grief, feeling like they were falling apart.

What was the symbolic significance of the walk the narrator undertook?

The walk symbolized a physical and mental journey to regain control over their life, confront grief, and find a way out of the depression that had taken hold following their personal losses.

How did the narrator decide to start their transformative journey?

The narrator decided to start their journey by flying home to Pinellas County, Florida, then going to the southernmost beach and beginning a long walk, inspired by Forrest Gump's fictional cross-country run.

What metaphorical significance did the shells carry for the narrator?

The shells represented honoring the memory of the narrator's parents and the journey itself, symbolizing personal growth and the return to oneself.

What key realization did the narrator have by the end of their journey?

By the end of the journey, the narrator realized the immense potential within to reset oneself and that sometimes making a big change or difference is all it takes to regain control over life's hardships.

What advice does the narrator offer to others seeking a 'reset' in their lives?

The narrator encourages finding an activity that brings joy and meaning, whether it's taking a walk, gardening, singing, or any other activity that helps to clear the mind and provide a fresh perspective.

What does the story of Brenda Barnes illustrate according to the narrator?

Brenda Barnes' story illustrates the importance of making timely life choices that align with personal values and needs, emphasizing the value of work-life balance and the unpredictability of life.

How does solitude contribute to finding answers according to the narrator's experience?

The narrator believes solitude provides the mental space needed for clarity and introspection, allowing one to confront and solve underlying issues without distractions.

What was the final act the narrator did to signify the completion of their journey and what did it symbolize?

The narrator wrote the word 'done' in the sand, symbolizing the end of their grief and sadness, and marking the moment they regained hope and control over their life.