*What do the best storytellers do before they say a single word?*

They know exactly who they’re talking to.

Not just the job title.
Not just the industry.
But the *inner world* of the person listening.

Here’s why it matters:
According to research published in the journal *Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience*, when we hear stories that reflect our own experiences or values, the **medial prefrontal cortex** lights up–this is the part of the brain involved in self-referential thinking and empathy.

In other words:
We pay more attention to stories that feel like *they’re about us*.

So here’s your challenge today:
**Before you tell your next story, ask: “What does my audience care about right now?”**

Then shape your story around *that*.

For example:
If you’re talking to a team under pressure, don’t just tell a story about success.
Tell a story about *resilience*.
About *doubt*.
About *pushing through when it’s hard*.

If you’re pitching to a client, don’t just list features.
Tell a story about a moment when someone like them had a problem–and how it got solved.

One thing to try:
Before your next meeting or presentation, write down:
– What’s keeping them up at night?
– What do they want more than anything?
– What are they afraid of?

Then tell a story that speaks *to that*.

Because the best stories aren’t about you.
They’re about *them*.

#Storytelling #EmpathyInLeadership #AudienceConnection #BusinessStorytelling #PresentationSkills #PublicSpeaking #Neuroscience #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipCommunication #ExecutivePresence