Telling someone what to do rarely changes behavior. Our brains are wired to resist being told. But when you tell a story, the brain relaxes—it stops debating and starts imagining.

Stories build trust because they reveal our humanity. They remind people, “You’re not alone. I’ve been there too.” That’s what creates psychological safety—the foundation for learning, teamwork, and change.

Whether you’re leading a class, a company, or a conversation, storytelling is the bridge between instruction and inspiration. It turns “You should” into “I understand.”