What trauma taught me about happiness | Lindsey Roy | TEDxKC

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Published 2017-09-08

Why are trauma survivors happier, on average, than lottery winners? During her recovery from a devastating accident, Lindsey Roy developed ideas and ways of coping that suggest an answer to that question. Learn about her specific methods for overcoming the brain's natural negativity bias, letting go of past expectations, and connecting to a deeper self in the here and now. Lindsey Roy is a brilliant storyteller with a captivating story. A tragic boating accident while on vacation almost claimed Lindsey’s life and left her with an amputated left leg, severely injured right leg and injured right arm. Through a challenging recovery process, Lindsey learned impactful lessons on how to harness disruption and find clarity in the chaos.

Lindsey has spent over sixteen years in the corporate environment, leading teams in innovation, digital development and product merchandising. She was named Vice President at Hallmark Cards at just thirty-two years old, one of the youngest VPs ever in a company with over a 100-year history and in the top 1% of brands worldwide.

Lindsey combines her unique life experience, corporate background and emotional intelligence to truly connect with audiences. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

All Comments (21)

@BhaktaChand1 4 years ago

Those 49 dislikes, I hope you are perfect. Thank you, Lindsey, for sharing such a wonderful and inspirational story.
@lynguyen8590 5 years ago

Trauma teaches one about strength. If you suffer you do not have to hide your sufferings. Trauma could be your greatest power.
@susanmazzanti5643 6 years ago

I was hit by a car and had a broken neck. Thank you for helping me find a new way to move forward.
@sbakerproductions 5 years ago

It took me two years to come to terms with my physical limitations after a violent assault. It wasn't until I bought into the process of healing wholeheartedly, especially the inner self. I can attest to her message and my deepest respect to Lindsey for sharing her story.
@honestcheetah 6 years ago

Someone once said something like, "if you look closely at what brings you tears you may see that you weep for the very things that brought you joy." -T.S. Eliot(?)
@RalphDratman 6 years ago

Remarkable level of honesty. Many thanks to Lindsey Roy for this excellent talk.
@cathihanauer6513 6 years ago

I love this talk. Pure inspiration.
@dennisnewton9384 5 years ago

That’s awesome. You could have given up and been miserable and bitter. Great talk!
@TheJuryIsOut 4 years ago

What an amazing courageous soul. I hope you find healing and peace in your life. One of the few talks that had my undivided attention from start to finish. Some really inspiring pearls of wisdom to live by and deal with whatever life throws at you.
@joanm3682 6 years ago

I've had more than my share of personal trauma. This is the best TED talk I've ever heard- which is saying quite a lot. Thank you for your words of wisdom!!
@harenrussel 5 years ago

Thank you Lindsey. You're courage, bravery, acceptance of your changes and rising up above it all is motivating and encouraging. Keep strong.
@actionforanimals4862 3 years ago

Lindsay's courage is inspiring. She offers a path forward for anyone struggling to live without trauma.
@SamSung-zx9tb 5 years ago

...two left feet...lol! Continued blessings and thank you for the 3rd person perspective.
@Kristiana-mb9lk 2 years ago

I’m moving on from my trauma of the last 2 years, it happened so learn from it and move on, I can’t change that past but embrace the change that is coming, the change not only of my making but those close to me who have allowed me to see that I need to change, to engage with them at what level they wish to engage at, listen to new ideas not just that they are my friends or colleagues but because I trust them to hold in part my new life that I know is coming, to change my Negative hypnosis into a Positive one. ♥️
@josephamankwa10 4 years ago

2020 and am still watching. Inspiring
@user-no9tu9rz9g 6 years ago

You're so great and amazing! So honest and strong! I believe your talk helps a lot ot people...
@ShereeTrask 1 year ago

Profound, inspiring and so courageous. Thank you for sharing your story of resilience and bravery!
@chrisburke2085 6 years ago

Thanks for being you. God bless your family!
@jude1515 6 years ago

Excellent speech and I admire your strength!
@tammiwood3937 5 years ago

Sp honored to hear your talk...you are amazing