10 TED Talks That Inspire That Girl Energy and Empower Your Glow-Up

In a world of early morning routines, green smoothies, and journal prompts, “That Girl” energy has become more than just a TikTok trend—it’s a mindset. She’s confident, productive, self-aware, and always striving to level up mentally and physically. But sometimes, even that girl needs a little inspiration to reignite her fire.
Enter TED Talks. These powerful, bite-sized doses of motivation are perfect for refueling your purpose, realigning your mindset, and boosting your confidence. In this post, we’ve curated 10 TED Talks that embody That Girl Energy—each one chosen to help you glow up mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Whether you’re on your self-development journey or simply need a quick mindset reset, these talks are your perfect starting point.
1. “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown
Dr. Brené Brown dives deep into vulnerability, self-worth, and authenticity—pillars of That Girl Energy.
- Key Takeaway: Embracing vulnerability is not weakness—it’s strength.
- Why It Inspires: It encourages emotional growth and self-awareness.
- Perfect For: Moments when you’re struggling with perfectionism or self-doubt.
The Confidence Connection
Brown shows how vulnerability actually builds stronger relationships and deeper self-love—two things “That Girl” thrives on.
2. “Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are” by Amy Cuddy
Power poses and presence are real tools for empowerment—and Amy Cuddy has the science to prove it.
- Key Takeaway: The way you carry yourself can reshape how you think and feel.
- Why It Inspires: Helps you own every room you walk into—literally.
- Perfect For: Prepping for an interview, date, or presentation.
3. “How to Make Stress Your Friend” by Kelly McGonigal
Stress isn’t always the enemy. Kelly McGonigal teaches you how to use it as fuel instead of fear.
- Key Takeaway: Reframing stress can actually make you healthier and more resilient.
- Why It Inspires: Shifts your mindset to see challenges as opportunities.
- Perfect For: Hustle seasons or life transitions.
4. “The Art of Being Yourself” by Caroline McHugh
In a world full of copy-paste influencers, McHugh offers a refreshing reminder: authenticity is the ultimate glow-up.
- Key Takeaway: Being unapologetically yourself is your superpower.
- Why It Inspires: Encourages you to tune into your true voice, not society’s expectations.
- Perfect For: Anyone battling imposter syndrome.
Owning Your Identity
This TED Talk aligns perfectly with That Girl Energy—because she’s not trying to be anyone else.
5. “What Makes a Good Life?” by Robert Waldinger
Spoiler: It’s not money or fame. Waldinger, a Harvard researcher, shares the 75-year study findings on happiness.
- Key Takeaway: Strong relationships are key to a happy and fulfilling life.
- Why It Inspires: A grounded reminder to nurture emotional and social well-being.
- Perfect For: Realigning your priorities or when you’re in reflection mode.
6. “Why You Should Talk to Strangers” by Kio Stark
That Girl is confident—and this talk shows you how to cultivate connection, even with strangers.
- Key Takeaway: Human connection starts with small, brave interactions.
- Why It Inspires: Encourages courage, charisma, and emotional intelligence.
- Perfect For: Anyone looking to build confidence and open new doors.
7. “Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator” by Tim Urban
We all procrastinate—but That Girl knows how to overcome it. Tim Urban explains what’s really going on in your brain.
- Key Takeaway: Understand the panic monster and take control of your time.
- Why It Inspires: It’s relatable, funny, and gives you tools to shift out of stuck mode.
- Perfect For: Those in a creative rut or starting a new habit.
Getting Things Done
This talk pairs well with your habit tracker and vision board.
8. “The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong” by Amy Morin
Mental toughness is a core part of That Girl Energy—and Amy Morin lays out exactly how to develop it.
- Key Takeaway: Strength comes from eliminating bad habits and building resilience.
- Why It Inspires: Practical strategies that go beyond surface-level motivation.
- Perfect For: Times when you need to reset, refocus, and reclaim your power.
9. “Why We Have Too Few Women Leaders” by Sheryl Sandberg
In this powerful talk, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg addresses the leadership gap and how women can rise.
- Key Takeaway: Empowered women empower women—and it starts with leaning in.
- Why It Inspires: Challenges gender norms and pushes for ambition without apology.
- Perfect For: Career-focused women or anyone aspiring to lead.
10. “How to Gain Control of Your Free Time” by Laura Vanderkam
Time is That Girl’s most precious currency—and Vanderkam helps you master it.
- Key Takeaway: You have time for what truly matters when you prioritize intentionally.
- Why It Inspires: Helps you craft your ideal schedule, without the burnout.
- Perfect For: Boosting productivity, balance, and intentional living.
Conclusion
That Girl Energy isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about intentionality, growth, and owning your power. Each of these TED Talks offers a unique insight into self-mastery, confidence, and the kind of mindset that helps you level up in every area of your life.
Whether you’re journaling in the morning or winding down with a cup of tea, let these talks fuel your glow-up journey.