VIDEO
HIGHLIGHT
Log InSign up
Overcoming obstacles - Steven Claunch
SummaryTranscriptChat

Overcoming obstacles - Steven Claunch

Overcoming Obstacles: A Personal Journey

Introduction to Personal Challenges

  • The speaker shares their physical challenges, being born without fingers on the right hand and having a shorter right leg.
  • Describes the medical procedure involving metal spikes and wires to stabilize the leg for walking.

The Importance of Perseverance

  • Emphasizes the necessity of stretching muscles to prevent atrophy, acknowledging that it is painful but focusing on capabilities rather than limitations.
  • Introduces the theme of overcoming obstacles, stating that everyone faces hurdles in life.

Inspirational Example: Jim Abbott

  • Mentions Jim Abbott, a one-handed Major League baseball player who achieved significant success, including an Olympic gold medal.
  • Shares a story about Abbott's father encouraging him to improve his skills instead of blaming his disability for not being allowed to play baseball.

Overcoming Stereotypes and Judgments

  • Discusses how teams would try to exploit Abbott’s missing arm but failed due to his dedication and practice.
  • The speaker reflects on personal experiences in basketball, highlighting achievements despite facing judgment based on appearance.

Proving Others Wrong

  • Recounts a game where opponents underestimated him due to his disability; he capitalized on this by scoring multiple points.
Video description

View full lesson: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/there-s-no-dishonor-in-having-a-disability-steven-claunch When faced with a bump in the road, sometimes we forget we have a choice: overcome the obstacle or let it overcome you. Steven Claunch, who was born without fingers on his right hand and with one leg shorter than the other and has excelled in basketball nonetheless, explains why obstacles can provide an opportunity to both inspire others and develop character. Lesson by Steven Claunch, animation by Avi Ofer.