Welcome to another Tuesday with TED. Today we have writer and New York Times columnist David Brooks. He is the author of Bobos in Paradise, On Paradise Drive, and the narrative of neuroscience, The Social Animal: The Hidden Sources of Love, Character and Achievement. In this meditative short talk, he argues that within each of us are two selves, constantly at odds with one another: the self who craves success, who builds a résumé, and the self who seeks connection, community, and love — the values that make for a great eulogy.

Brooks asks: Can we balance these two selves? Watch this interesting talk to find out how.

I found the concept of a “signature sin” fascinating and also a bit puzzling. I’m still trying to figure out what mine is. Do you know what yours is? Do you agree with Brooks’ statement that you must battle this weakness in order to gain depth of character? How might you use this concept to your creative life?

Until next time,
Cynthia Patton