The Greatest way of Storytelling

Last Monday, I received an email asking me to explore some articles on storytelling. As I began this learning path, I realized something striking: it's far easier to share an idea when you focus on conveying one single passion through a story rather than juggling multiple ones.?

The video that followed suggested that the greatest minds of history had just one passion. This singular focus, it implied, was why their messages stood the test of time. The takeaway? To build a compelling narrative, a speaker should be seen as a 'Master of One.'?

But here’s where I disagree. Yes, speaking from a place of passion makes your message clearer and more human, but there are two major flaws in this 'Master of One' narrative:?

The greatest minds weren't limited to a single passion. People like Leonardo da Vinci, Benjamin Franklin, and Isaac Newton weren’t just "one thing." They were explorers, inventors, and thinkers across multiple fields—just like you and me.?

While having a singular focus may help clarify a message, the greatest storytellers are 'Jacks and Jills of all trades, masters of none, but oftentimes (especially on this) better than a master of one.' They organize the chaos of their diverse passions, struggles, and experiences into a cohesive narrative that feels real and relatable. This authenticity is what truly connects.?

Moreover, having multiple passions isn’t just about authenticity—it’s also an innovative perspective. Those who embrace many interests tend to be highly adaptable and approach new areas with fresh eyes. They’re more likely to make connections across different fields, often leading to unique discoveries and creations due to their distinct viewpoint. This adaptability allows them to see possibilities that others may miss, making them valuable problem solvers and creative thinkers.?

Stop for a moment and ask yourself:

Do you know anyone who has just one passion?

Even if someone chooses to focus on one thing for a presentation, would you believe that this is their sole purpose in life??

Most of us would say no, and rightly so. Humans are designed to explore multiple passions throughout their lives. It’s natural to cycle through them, focusing on different fields at different times.?

Take Benjamin Franklin, for example. He was a politician, yes, but also an inventor, author, and postmaster. Leonardo da Vinci was more than a painter—he was a military engineer, draftsman, and architect. And Isaac Newton? He was a scientist, philosopher, and systems theorist.?

Specializing can be powerful, but we shouldn't feel confined by it. You can have many passions. Not all of them need to become careers, but that doesn't mean they don’t belong in your story.?

So, how do you tell a story when it's made up of so many pieces?

You build a puzzle.

And that puzzle is your unique, multifaceted life. Your story is your message, and every passion, struggle, and experience has its place.?

Whether you have 2, 3, or 24 passions, they'll all come together over time to create a clear picture of who you are. After all, isn't the human experience all about chasing dreams, finding missions, and living fully?

This, to me, is the greatest way of storytelling.?