In her TEDx talk titled “How to return to your true selfーA $100 million question,” Reiko Nakauchi shares her personal journey of self-discovery and finding her true identity. She starts by highlighting the pressures and distractions of modern life that often cause individuals to lose sight of who they really are. Nakauchi discusses how she felt lost and disconnected from her authentic self, despite outward success and accomplishments.
Through introspection and self-reflection, Nakauchi was able to reconnect with her true self and rediscover her passions and purpose. She emphasizes the importance of tuning out external noise and listening to your inner voice to uncover your true identity. Nakauchi also explores the concept of happiness and the realization that material possessions and achievements do not necessarily equate to fulfillment.
This empowering talk encourages viewers to prioritize self-discovery and authenticity in order to lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Nakauchi’s insights serve as a reminder that true happiness comes from within and can only be achieved by returning to one’s true self.
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Author Video Description
The speaker emphasizes that living as your true self is the key to happiness and fulfillment, both for yourself and others. Drawing from 17 years of experience running a school, the speaker shares how, despite outward success, they felt a void until asking themselves, “If I had $100 million, what would I do?” This question revealed their true desire to expand educational opportunities globally.
The speaker suggests asking this same question to others to uncover their true selves. They advocate removing three things to find one’s true self: dependence, guilt, and social status. By eliminating these, individuals can align their actions with their values and mission.
Living as your true self leads to self-love, respect, and a greater capacity to contribute to others’ happiness. The speaker concludes that finding and committing to your true self brings real joy and fulfillment.
Reiko Nakauchi is an educator, author, business owner, mother, consultant and researcher with more than 30 years experience in education.
She currently runs three bilingual schools in Silicon Valley (US), and one in Japan. She released her book “Silicon Valley Style: The World’s Best Parenting,” in 2020 which was ranked No. 1 in three education categories on Amazon in Japan. She also loves to travel and discover the educational needs of children around the world This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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Video “How to return to your true selfーA $100 million question | Reiko Nakauchi | TEDxKhargharWomen” was uploaded on 01/24/2025 to Youtube Channel TEDx Talks