Inspiration

Articles by this author

9 hyper-motivating TED talks from women on the top Ladders Contributor

It’s time for a pep talk, ladies. Take a few minutes to pause and absorb empowering stories from some of the best lady pioneers of our generation. Read More

9 career tips from unexpected Disney characters that will empower the hell out of you Sami Allen

When you need a little inspo, what better place to look than Disney? There are plenty of characters whose advice could help you with everything from battling love troubles to acting with kindness. But what about your career? Yep, Disney can even help you figure out your path in life. These nine underrated Disney characters dish out some solid tips you can implement at work, starting right now. Read More

In need of some inspiration? Try doing nothing. No, seriously Sami Allen

My proposal is this: that we allow ourselves to feel okay about doing absolutely nothing. If this is hard for you (and it’s hard for me!), don’t worry — studies prove that it’s actually really good for you, both mentally and physically. Read More

5 women who quit a job for their mental health – and what they learned Lindsay Tigar

In honor of Mental Health Awareness month, get inspired to leave a toxic gig, just like these five — super-successful and happier — women did. Read More

George Saunders: 'What I regret most in my life are failures of kindness'Ladders Contributor

Here is the full transcript and video of George Saunders’ commencement address to Syracuse’s Class of 2013. Read More

Jeff Bezos: 'It’s harder to be kind than clever'Ladders Contributor

Here is the full video and transcript of Jeff Bezos’ commencement address to Princeton’s Class of 2010. Read More

Ellen DeGeneres: 'As you grow, you’ll realize the definition of success changes'Ellen DeGeneres

It’s graduation season, and we here at Ladders have decided to take a look back and showcase some past commencement addresses that stand the test of time. Here is the full transcript of Ellen DeGeneres’ commencement address to Tulane’s Class of 2009. Read More

Focus on what you can control and you will win every time Christopher D. Connors

Don’t worry about what others are doing — especially if you find it turning into envy or frustration. You’re on your own path for a reason. Know your purpose, clarify your goals and keep powering forward with confidence and conviction. Read More

10 unmistakable habits of irresistible people Travis Bradberry

Since being irresistible isn’t the result of dumb luck, it’s time to study the habits of irresistible people so that you can use them to your benefit. Get ready to say “hello” to a new, more irresistible you. Read More

Must Reads

What jobs can you get with a business degree?

We’ve rounded up 11 different types of jobs you can get with a business degree to give you an idea of just how versatile that particular bachelor’s degree is.

The 21 jobs that are MOST likely to lead to divorce

Some jobs have a higher divorce rate than others.

The 12 best people to pick as job references

You want to pick people who have worked alongside you and think highly enough of you to sing your praises to a hiring manager.

I did 8 rounds of interviews and still didn’t get the job

“I’ve interviewed with Google twice now, and when people ask me why I don’t work there, I respond, ‘I can never seem to get past the eighth interview,’” says Steve Silberberg, who is now the founder of Fatpacking, a weight-loss backpacking company.

Myth busted: 5 ageism stereotypes that need to be broken

In the last few months, older social media personalities have been gaining traction on sites like Instagram, Twitter, and Tik Tock. They’re called Grandfluencers, and they’re here to debunk pervasive ageism myths….and make a little cash doing it.

The simple eye contact trick you should use in every conversation

“When two people are having a conversation, eye contact signals that shared attention is high —that they are in peak synchrony with one another.”

How to deal with ‘The Great Resignation’ when you are a manager

Managers are worried about maintaining the talent required to keep the doors open, but they are not asking the right questions.

The flu shot may protect you from severe COVID-19 infection

New research found that the flu vaccine may provide vital protection against COVID-19, reducing the risk of suffering severe infection, like stroke, sepsis, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The best exercises for flabby arms — workouts you’ve never heard of

You can tone your arms with these five workouts, and we have video to show you the right form.

7 things you should never ask your boss

There are some things you should just not ask your boss — these 7 questions are things you should stay clear from in conversation.