Figure-It-Out-ness: What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do | David Settle | TEDxThird Ward Salon

What do the world’s greatest innovators, entrepreneurs, and everyday problem-solvers have in common? They all faced moments where they had no idea what to do next.

In this inspiring and practical TEDx talk, David Settle introduces the concept of “Figure-It-Out-ness”—the often-overlooked skill of navigating uncertainty with curiosity, resilience, and action. Drawing from his experiences as an entrepreneur, educator, celebrity photographer, and tech startup founder, David challenges the belief that success comes from always having the right answers. Instead, he reveals how embracing the words “I don’t know” can become the catalyst for innovation, growth, and breakthrough.

Blending personal stories, humor, and actionable insights, this talk equips audiences with a framework for tackling life’s biggest challenges when the path forward isn’t obvious. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, pursuing a dream, or simply facing an uncertain future, you’ll leave with the confidence to stop fearing the unknown—and start figuring it out. David Settle is a celebrity photographer, entrepreneur, author, and tech startup founder dedicated to helping people and businesses turn ideas into impact. With more than two decades of experience spanning media, education, and entrepreneurship, he has worked with some of the biggest names in entertainment while building brands that blend creativity with innovation. As the co-founder of Moonlight, an on-demand marketplace transforming the photography and videography industry, David is passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems. A TEDx speaker, educator, and storyteller, he inspires audiences to embrace uncertainty, cultivate resilience, and develop the “figure-it-out” mindset that fuels breakthrough success. 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