Ty Tashiro reveals why the psychological traits that make people socially awkward are the same traits that propel them toward extraordinary achievements. Through lighthearted stories about his socially awkward childhood and adulthood, he explains why a unique perspective and an uncommon enthusiasm is essential for achieving our awesome potential. This talk is for anyone who sees the world a little differently. Ty Tashiro, Ph.D., is the author of "Awkward: The Science of Why We’re Socially Awkward and Why That’s Awesome" and "The Science of Happily Ever After." His work has been featured at the New York Times, Time.com, TheAtlantic.com, NPR, Sirius XM Stars radio, and VICE. He received his Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Minnesota, has been an award-winning professor at the University of Maryland and University of Colorado, and has addressed TED@NYC, Harvard Business School, MIT’s Media Lab, and the American Psychological Association. He lives in New York City. 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