EP132 – Stories-The Power Beyond Entertainment
When we solve problems or pitch ideas, revisiting the “why” is key. It builds connection & makes the journey matter. #advancedqualityPrograms #TheQualityGuy #problemsolving #communication
“When solving problems or pitching ideas, revisit the ‘why.’ As Brené Brown said, ‘Stories are data with a soul.’”
Stories have captivated us since the beginning of time, serving a far greater purpose than mere entertainment. Recent research underscores the fundamental role they play in our ability not only to envision the future but also to prepare for challenges and adversity. Through stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.
While beautiful language can certainly enhance a story’s appeal, it’s the narrative itself that truly resonates with us. A compelling idea can be motivating, but without a captivating narrative, it can fall flat. This is why effectively pitching an idea often requires incorporating essential elements of a captivating story.
At its core, a story explores the transformation of a character as they pursue a challenging goal. The sequence of events that unfold is the plot, the protagonist is the central character, their objective is the story’s central problem, and the changes they undergo define the narrative arc.
However, a good story goes beyond external events; it delves into the protagonist’s internal journey. It focuses on the obstacles they face in overcoming a conflict. Identifying this core conflict is crucial for sparking the reader’s curiosity.
HOOKING YOUR AUDIENCE FROM THE START
A story needs to grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning. It should center on a protagonist confronting an unforeseen problem they simply can’t avoid. The initial question in every reader’s mind is: what challenge will the protagonist face? This anticipation fuels curiosity. To effectively convey this, ensure three elements are present.
THE POINT OF THE STORY
Every story needs a central message. Just like when a friend tells a story, and you wonder, “What’s the point?” It’s crucial to identify your story’s point before you start writing. This clarity makes it easier to craft the narrative and saves time on rewrites later.
Knowing your story’s point helps you filter out irrelevant details. The audience expects everything in a story to matter. If you include extraneous information, they’ll get confused. Determining your story’s central message is essential. Without it, your story becomes a series of events lacking meaning.
ELICITING EMOTIONAL CONNECTION IN STORYTELLING
A story’s power lies in its ability to evoke empathy for the protagonist. Emotions are crucial for reader engagement; we tend to feel before we analyze. Every element of the story should elicit a visceral reaction from the protagonist, one that the audience can connect with. This reaction can be external, like a physical action, or internal, like a thought or realization.
THE DRIVING FORCE: A PROTAGONIST’S GOAL
Every protagonist has a goal, mirroring our own pursuits in life. This desire fuels the protagonist’s journey and imbues the story with purpose. Without a clear goal, the narrative loses direction and meaning. This desire serves as the story’s backbone, making every event significant.
Some writers overlook this crucial aspect, but every story needs a protagonist with a strong desire, a clear “what they want.” This desire can range from achieving wealth to finding love or changing the world. It’s what motivates the protagonist’s actions throughout the story.
Understanding the protagonist’s goal allows you to measure the significance of each event. Does it bring the protagonist closer to their goal or push them further away? This dynamic keeps the story engaging and meaningful.
UNVEILING THE PROTAGONIST’S INTERNAL CONFLICT
This process also helps identify the story’s starting point. The protagonist’s journey begins when they can no longer ignore their fears and decide to take action to achieve their goal. This pivotal moment of transformation lies at the heart of every compelling story. It’s the ‘why’ behind the ‘what they want.’
THE POWER OF SPECIFIC DETAILS
Specificity trumps vagueness. Specific details help the audience visualize the story and connect with the characters on a deeper level. Vague descriptions leave the audience guessing and dilute the story’s emotional impact. Dry facts, data, and dates don’t tell a story; that’s why many people find history lessons uninspiring. Ask yourself: can you visualize each scene with your eyes closed? If not, consider adding more specific details to bring the story to life.
CAUSE AND EFFECT
Stories need a clear cause-and-effect trajectory to hold the audience’s interest. This logical progression drives the plot forward. Understanding why events happen and their emotional impact on the protagonist is crucial. Instead of simply telling us the protagonist’s feelings, showing their internal responses adds depth to the story.
WHY PROTAGONISTS MUST EARN THEIR VICTORIES
Protagonists must face challenges and earn their victories. This creates engaging narratives that resonate with the audience. Here’s how to craft a compelling story where the protagonist overcomes obstacles, which is why they ultimately follow the hero’s path. Avoid giving the protagonist easy wins. Let them struggle and work hard for their success. This makes their victories more satisfying for the audience.
WHY IS THIS RELATED TO QUALITY?
Now, you may ask why this is related to quality. While we are solving problems or pitching ideas, we sometimes need to go back and portray the reason behind finding the solution. This makes them relatable and allows for meaningful character growth. Overcoming internal obstacles is central to solving problems and bringing new developments to life. We can better understand the reasons behind the story by discovering the protagonist. As we are willing to improve, we start understanding their vulnerabilities, and the success becomes more meaningful. Your audience will connect with the struggles and root for the protagonist’s success, helping you at the same time.
History is a fable agreed upon.” – Napoleon Bonaparte