The Power of Storytelling : Kenapa Otak Lebih Suka Cerita Daripada Data?

Sumber: Nilov (2021)

Have you ever heard people say, "Numbers can't lie?"This statement is actually not wrong, but the problem is that numbers can't make you excited.

Try to think about what advertisement has made the most impression in your memory to date?Most likely not because of the data presented, but because of the story in it.It could be about a father's struggle, childhood friendship, or a simple but memorable moment of emotion.

In fact,79%people tend to shift their attention when presented with too much text and data (Prezi & Poll, 2018).Why do stories stick in your head so easily, while graphs and statistics evaporate so quickly?
Come on, let's discuss the power of storytelling in more depth, why the brain prefers stories to data and how you can use it in everyday communication.

1. The brain is more active when hearing stories

When we listen to a story, our brain responds as if we were watching a film.Not only is the language part active, but also the emotional, sensory and visualization areas are involved.
This means that stories are not only heard but also felt.This is what makes stories easier to remember and has a stronger impact than just data.

2. The story is more heart touching, not just logic

Data gives us information about “what's happening,”while the story explains “why it matters.”When people start to feel they care, they are more easily moved to act.

Stories create empathy.You may know that 1000 people lost their homes due to a disaster, but a story about a mother who lost the kitchen where she cooked for her children?It touches our hearts even more.

3. Story Structure Helps the Brain Organize Meaning

Stories have a pattern: beginning, conflict, and solution.Our brains like this pattern because it makes it easier for us to understand and remember information.
If you want people to really understand your message, tell it in an interesting way.Not only so they understand, but also so they care and remember it easily.

4. Storytelling can be used in all fields

Storytelling is not only relevant in the creative world, but is also highly effective in a variety of professional contexts.Whether you're in HR presenting an idea to management, a teacher explaining material to students, or an employee presenting a project, storytelling can be a very powerful tool.

Through stories, you can convey messages in a more lively, authentic and trustworthy way, while reducing the distance between the speaker and the audience.

5. Stories are the natural language of humans

Since ancient times, humans have gathered around campfires and shared stories.Storytelling is not a new technique but a natural way to convey knowledge, values, and even shape culture.

So, when you want to convey something, start with a story.Although data explains, stories make people feel.In communication, feeling is what makes messages stay longer.

Conclusion

In the midst of a sea of ​​data, stories have the power to touch hearts and last longer in memories.While numbers provide information, stories evoke emotions and create deeper connections.

Storytelling is not only relevant in the creative world, but also very effective in the professional world.Stories are our natural way of communicating, conveying messages in a more vivid, authentic and memorable way.So, start talking with stories, because that's what makes your message stick.

Are you ready to change an ordinary message into something touching through storytelling?improve the way you communicate and build connections through storytelling.Take classes at TALKINC to master public speaking techniques that are relevant and impactful for your career advancement.Come on, start your story journey with TALKINC!