Speeches have the power to motivate us, transform us, and move us into action. It’s not just what is said, it’s how it’s said. Some people have that incredible skill to captivate, entertain, teach and inspire. Here’s a collection of some of my favorite, most inspirational speeches. Some are high energy and ridiculous. Others are solemn and insightful. They all stand out as some of the best speeches I’ve heard.
1. Shia LeBeouf – Just Do It
The Transformers & Fury star came out with an unusual 30 minute monologue where he just talks about the complexities of life. Yet in the middle of that is this gem, a one-minute explosive motivational speech.
Best Quote: “Just do it!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuHfVn_cfHU
2. Nick Selby – Georgia Tech Welcome Speech
An unknown Georgia Tech student became famous for his welcome speech to incoming freshman. He gives a fairly normal welcome speech, but at the very end, the background music comes on and he gets charged.
Best Quote: “If you wanna change the world, you’re at Georgia Tech, you can do that! If you wanna build the Iron Man suit, you’re at Georgia Tech, you can do that!”
3. Ashton Kutcher – Teen Choice Awards Speech
For an awards speech, you expect something bland and surface level, especially for teen choice. But he has 3 simple tips for teens, which are incredibly deep and inspiring, and something everyone can learn from.
Best Quote: “Opportunity looks a lot like hard work.”
4. Steve Jobs – Stanford Commencement Address
The Apple founder and CEO gave an incredibly moving commencement speech at Stanford University. As he reflected back on his own life, he had some very good advice for career and for life.
Best Quote: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”
Which one of these speeches moves you the most? Are there other speeches that you’ve been inspired by? Let me know in the comments.