*What’s the one thing your audience will always remember?*

**How you made them feel.**

You might think people remember facts, data, or even your exact words–but they don’t. Research from neuroscientist Antonio Damasio shows that **emotions drive decision-making and memory**. If your story sparks an emotional reaction, it sticks. If it doesn’t, it fades.

*Here’s why it works:* When we experience strong emotions–whether excitement, surprise, or even fear–our brain releases **dopamine**, which enhances memory and focus. That’s why you can recall a childhood embarrassment in vivid detail but forget what you had for lunch yesterday.

**Here’s your challenge today:** Add an emotional hook to your next story.

For example:
Instead of: *”We faced a challenge and found a solution.”*
Try: *”I remember staring at my screen, heart pounding, thinking, ‘This is a disaster.’ We had one shot to fix it–and no idea how.”*

See the difference? The second version *feels* real. It pulls the audience into the moment, making them experience the tension with you.

*Remember*: People may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how your story made them *feel*.

So, what emotion will you spark in your next story?

#Storytelling #EmotionalConnection #Engagement #Leadership #PresentationSkills #PublicSpeaking #Neuroscience #Communication #BusinessStorytelling #Inspiration