When we hear any kind of story, wether it’s a full fledged, multi-million dollar Hollywood production, or a friend is telling us a funny thing that happened on the way to the dentist, our brains tend to shut off.
Since it’s a story, it doesn’t relate to us, so we don’t have to worry about being conned, making any commitments or expressing our opinions that may or may not be well received.
That “critical factor” that has guarded us against such shenanigans over the course of human history can take a much needed break.
Which is why stories have long been a HUGE part of our human experience since the dawn of time.
Think about the tribal elder back in the days before agriculture. It’s one to gather all the kids together and show them a map of the area, and which areas have tigers, and then explain to them in detail the dangers of getting eaten by a tiger.
This would seem like school. Nobody likes to be preached to, especially not prehistoric kids who’d rather be out playing.
On the other hand, if the tribal elder gathered the kids around a camp fire, and them a long and harrowing tale of an ancient hero who barely escaped the tiger’s jaws of death, maybe losing a limb in the process, you better believe the kids would be paying attention.
And any time they were in an area where tigers might be, they’d certainly remember the story.
Think about this next time you’re intending to persuade somebody. Think of them, what you’d like them to do, and some potential obstacles or objections they might have.
Then whip up a story about somebody “like them” who encountered those same obstacles, and overcame with magnificent success.
They’ll follow along, and start thinking to themselves, (on their own) “Hmm, maybe I can do that, too…”
Of course, while you’re weaving your tales of influence, it can help to use some of the most powerfully persuasive language patterns ever created.
Learn more here: