The Power of Emotional Connection in Speaking: Why Stories Make an Impact
Mike Stevenson
International Motivational Speaker @ Mike Stevenson | Empowerment : Solution Finding : Creativity : Future of work ??????????
As a speaker, your ultimate goal isn’t just to have your audience hear your words—it’s to have them feel them. Words alone are fleeting; they can pass through the logical brain, processed and forgotten within moments. But when your words resonate emotionally, they stick, transforming your speech into a memorable experience that lingers for years.
This is where storytelling comes into play. Stories are powerful tools because they invite your audience to become participants in your narrative. They aren’t just sitting in the crowd, passively observing; they’re in the story, experiencing the smells, sounds, and emotions of your world.
Why Stories Work: Examples of Impact
Imagine describing a tense moment in a war zone: the heat of the sun on your skin, the dust in the air, and the piercing sounds of distant gunfire. Your audience isn’t just hearing about South Beirut; they’re there, holding their breath with you, experiencing your fear and hope. A decade later, when someone recounts your story to their friends, it’s because they were emotionally invested in that moment.
Take this example:
“Hey, it’s Mike Stevenson. I heard you speak at a conference years ago. I’ve retold your South Beirut story so many times—it always makes an impact.”
This simple anecdote underscores the truth: emotional connection makes your words unforgettable.
The Science Behind Emotional Connection
The logical brain processes facts, but unless the audience finds an immediate practical use for that information, it’s often forgotten. On the other hand, emotional experiences engage multiple areas of the brain, creating deeper connections and stronger memories. Think of the phrase, “In one ear and out the other.” Logical arguments might fade quickly unless paired with an emotional journey.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Prioritising Emotion
Pros:
Cons:
How to Make That Emotional Connection
By blending emotion with logic, you offer both an impactful message and a lasting memory. It’s not just about teaching or informing—it’s about taking your audience on a journey they’ll never forget.
So, the next time you speak, ask yourself: Are you simply telling, or are you inviting them to live it? That’s the difference between being heard for a moment and remembered for a lifetime.
themindfulleader.uk - Inspiring Change and Growth. Over two thousand leaders are now better leaders leading a better 'business'.
5 天前Mike Stevenson, thank you for your valuable insights. As Maya Angelou once said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This quote is often cited as a reminder that the way we treat others can have a lasting impact on them. It is important to be mindful of how our actions and words affect others, as they may remember how we made them feel long after they have forgotten what we said or did. Consider a teacher who makes students feel seen and valued. Long after the equations and historical dates fade from memory, the warmth of encouragement and support lingers. “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” — Nelson Mandela Mother Teresa have demonstrated that seemingly small acts, driven by compassion, leave enduring impressions. Her quote, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless," underscores how impactful it is to touch lives through empathy and care. Finally, "To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
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6 天前Thank you Mike, I really enjoyed reading your article. I have been attending a “branding” course this week and your article resonates with me as there was mention of the importance of creating a compelling “origin story” as a key part of branding one’s company. Sharing a compelling origin story can get people interested in the company, creating an unforgettable impression.
Career Coach, Keynote Speaker on Change, Presenter|Executive Producer - The GYFT Show Ireland.
6 天前Very interesting article Mike. In my view one of the keys to storytelling is being able to create a visceral state with your audience. As you rightly point out crafting such stories takes time and effort.
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6 天前Great share Mike Stevenson
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6 天前Right on, Mike Stevenson Openness and vulnerability let the audience know we are still learning, too