Understanding Change and Resilience

Maya shares her journey from a passionate violinist to a cognitive scientist after a life-changing injury. She discusses her podcast, 'A Slight Change of Plans,' which explores how people adapt to unexpected changes. Through stories like Christine Ha's triumph over blindness and Florence Williams' heartbreak, Maya highlights how change can redefine capabilities, values, and self-identity. She encourages embracing change as an opportunity for growth and expansion.

What was the speaker's childhood dream before her injury?

• To be a professional dancer

• To become a scientist

• To be a concert violinist

• To become a famous painter

What career did the speaker pursue after her injury?

• Professional chef

• Cognitive scientist

• Music teacher

• Therapist

According to the speaker, why is change often feared?

• It is easy to manage

• It is predictable

• It involves uncertainty and loss

• It is always negative

What challenge did Christine Ha overcome to become a renowned chef?

• Hearing loss

• Speech impairment

• Physical disability

• Vision loss

What did Christine Ha discover about cooking after losing her sight?

• It was impossible without sight

• It was less enjoyable

• It was more multi-sensory

• It was easier than before

What did Florence Williams learn about dealing with heartbreak?

• It should be ignored

• It is a problem to solve

• It can be a path to discovery

• It requires immediate closure

How did Florence Williams' view of life change after her marriage ended?

• She embraced uncertainty and discovery

• She became more goal-oriented

• She avoided new relationships

• She saw life as a puzzle to solve

What is 'identity paralysis' as described by the speaker?

• A phase of rapid identity change

• A condition of physical immobility

• A feeling of being stuck without a clear identity

• A state of constant happiness

How did the speaker redefine her identity after losing the ability to play the violin?

• By becoming a professional athlete

• By focusing on specific pursuits

• By avoiding any new activities

• By anchoring to her love for human connection

What does the speaker hope to achieve by asking the three questions during unexpected changes?

• To avoid any change

• To find new limitations

• To maintain the status quo

• To expand and grow