Too Many Stories May Defeat The Purpose of One

Reading challenge update: 20/35.

Have you ever read a book and realized halfway through that you don't totally agree after all? Do you ever start off agreeing with it, but then realize the point could be more accurate than the book makes it appear to be?

I hope so! In fact, that happened to me today when I read “TED Talks Storytelling” by Akash Karia. 

Doesn’t seem like the type of book to disagree with, does it? Well, it was a good book, the main point was clearly expressed and it had a clear focus. It was very well written, and I actually do agree with the purpose of the book. The title explains it pretty well, but the entire book was about the importance and effectiveness of storytelling. It was very clear that storytelling captures attention, and it should be prioritized. 

I was reading it today, I was intrigued at first, but I eventually began to catch myself skimming over the stories. Why? I lost interest.

But, if the book was totally true, the stories should be the part I care about the most. It should be what draws me in, keeps me focused, and wanting more. 

But, the opposite happened. I started to dread the stories, and I skipped them. 

Conclusion: Stories are good, but I don't think they're always necessary. When you decide to start a speech, article, etc., with a story, make sure the listener is the main character. I don't even think it needs to be a story, it can sometimes be as simple as a question the person can relate to. Don’t tell too many stories - you defeat the purpose if you do.