How to Rewrite the Stories That Keep You Small | Aleya Harris TEDx Talk
Watch Aleya Harris’ TEDx talk “What If Your Identity Is a Script You've Rehearsed Too Many Times?” and discover her 3R framework — Recognize, Reframe, Rewrite — for overcoming limiting beliefs and stepping into your power.
My TEDx Journey: How to Rewrite the Stories That Keep You Small
On August 16, 2025, I stepped onto the iconic red dot to deliver my TEDx talk, How to Rewrite the Stories That Keep You Small.
For years, I dreamed of this moment. TEDx stages are where ideas ignite change, where stories spark movements, and where courage meets community. But here’s the truth: preparing for TEDx wasn’t just about writing a speech. It became a test of my own storytelling framework — the 3Rs: Recognize, Reframe, Rewrite.
If you’ve ever felt trapped in a limiting story, this post — and my talk — are for you.
Watch my full TEDx talk on YouTube here.
The Dream of TEDx
Like so many speakers and thought leaders, TEDx was on my vision board for years. It represented the pinnacle of influence: the chance to share not just my expertise, but my heart, with the world.
The Struggle Behind the Scenes
Here’s what people don’t always see: even as a professional speaker, I had doubts.
You’re not ready.
You don’t belong here.
Who do you think you are?
Ironically, these were the very kinds of small, limiting stories I was preparing to talk about on stage.
The Framework That Helped Me Through
To overcome those doubts, I relied on the same process I teach leaders and entrepreneurs — the 3R Framework:
Recognize the negative story (“You don’t belong here”).
Reframe it with truth (“You were invited because your message matters”).
Rewrite it into empowerment (“I am ready. I have earned this stage. I belong”).
Each rehearsal, each rewrite, each late-night moment of doubt — I used the 3Rs to keep moving forward.
The Moment on Stage
When the lights came up and the room went quiet, everything clicked. I wasn’t just delivering a talk. I was living the 3Rs in real time.
Sharing my story wasn’t just a speech. It was an act of rewriting, reframing, and releasing the beliefs that had once held me back.
Why This Talk Matters
This TEDx talk is bigger than me. It’s for anyone who:
Feels stuck in a cycle of self-doubt.
Wants to shift the inner story that keeps them small.
Is ready to step into a more expansive, empowered version of themselves.
If that sounds like you (or someone you love), I hope this talk sparks something powerful.
Full Circle: Practicing What I Preach
The most beautiful part? Preparing for TEDx forced me to live my framework.
It was proof that storytelling isn’t just a business tool. It’s a life practice. A way of breaking free from old patterns and writing yourself into the future you deserve.
Call to Action
This message only spreads if you share it. If the talk resonates with you, here’s how you can help:
Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway.
Share it with a friend or colleague who needs a reminder of their own power.
Together, we can spark a movement of rewritten stories.
