**Ever wonder why some people can make even the most technical information sound *fascinating*?**

*It’s all about contrast.*

Our brains are wired to notice differences–light vs. dark, calm vs. chaos, success vs. failure. This is why contrast in storytelling is so powerful. When you set up opposites–like a moment of peace before a sudden twist–you trigger the brain’s attention system, making your audience *lean in* and stay engaged.

**Storytelling hack**: Next time you tell a story, look for opportunities to use contrast. For example, if you’re sharing a business win, start by describing the uncertainty or struggle that came before it. Or if you’re explaining a complex idea, compare it to something simple that everyone understands. This creates a mental “before and after” that makes your point more vivid and memorable.

**Your action step**: Think about a story you’ll tell this week. Where can you introduce contrast? Maybe it’s a calm moment before a big decision, or failure before success. Build that tension, and you’ll keep your audience hooked.

Remember, contrast doesn’t just *highlight* your story–it *amplifies* it.

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