*What’s the one thing every unforgettable story has in common?*

It’s not the hero. It’s not the setting. It’s *conflict*.

Conflict is the heartbeat of storytelling–it’s what keeps people glued to your words. Without it, your story is just a list of events. With it, you create tension, curiosity, and emotional investment.

*Here’s why it works:* Neuroscience shows that when we encounter conflict in a story, our brain releases **cortisol**, the stress hormone. This sharpens focus and keeps us engaged. But when the conflict is resolved, we get a hit of **dopamine**, which makes us feel satisfied and rewarded. It’s a one-two punch that keeps your audience hooked and leaves them feeling fulfilled.

**Try this today:** Next time you’re sharing an idea, *introduce a conflict early on*. It doesn’t have to be dramatic–just something that creates a sense of challenge or stakes.

For example:
Instead of saying, “We launched a new product, and it was a success,” try:
“When we launched the product, nothing went as planned. The website crashed, the team was scrambling, and we were sure we’d missed our chance. But what happened next changed everything…”

By framing your story around a conflict, you create a natural arc that pulls people in. They’ll want to know: *What happened? How did you fix it?*

*Remember*: Conflict isn’t about negativity–it’s about showing growth, resilience, and resolution. That’s what makes your story unforgettable.

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