Turn Everyday Moments Into Connections

A recent conversation with the storytelling maestro Matthew Dicks got me thinking about something Seth Godin recently told me.

 

The stories we tell (ourselves) determines the choices we make. 

 

I think we're constantly telling ourselves stories. Our stories determine how we perceive events and frame them which in turn determines our experience of those events. 

 

Take Matthew’s incredible journey for example.

 

He survived a near-death experience and used it to launch his career as a prolific author and speaker.

Here’s the takeaway:

 

Storytelling isn’t just for writers or marketers; it’s for everyone.

 

It’s about finding meaning in everyday moments and using those stories to connect, inspire, and grow.

 

Why Storytelling Matters?

Matthew’s philosophy is simple yet profound: every day holds a story worth telling.

 

He practices “Homework for Life,” a daily habit of reflecting on the most meaningful moment of his day.

 

Over time, he’s trained himself to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary.

 

Imagine how rich life becomes when we don’t let moments slip through our fingers, when we slow down and truly see.

 

Stories not only preserve these moments but also help us connect—with ourselves and others.

 

The Power of Five Seconds

Matthew emphasizes the “five-second transformation”—the moment when a shift in perspective changes everything.

 

For him, it might happen while sitting in a car, pondering a seemingly small decision, only to uncover a lifetime of subconscious patterns.

 

These moments are pure gold, and when shared, they resonate deeply.

 

Practical Storytelling Tips

If you’re looking to make your life (or your brand) unforgettable, here are some tips I learned from Matthew:

1. Start Small: Reflect daily. Jot down one meaningful moment—no need for full paragraphs. A few sentences will do.
2. Use Present Tense: It pulls people into the moment and makes your stories feel immediate and engaging.
3. Focus on Connection: Great stories aren’t about you—they’re about how your experience speaks to others.
4. Don’t Overcomplicate: Drop the adjectives. Use vivid nouns to let your audience fill in the blanks with their imagination.

Storytelling in Business

Matthew’s insights aren’t just for personal growth—they’re a game-changer for businesses.

 

Stories make brands memorable, relatable, and trusted.

 

Instead of listing product features, share stories that show how your product or service impacts lives.

 

Final Thought

You don’t need a dramatic life event to tell a great story.

 

The most powerful ones often emerge from everyday life.

 

Pay attention to the small things—they’re often the big things in disguise.

 

💡 What’s your story today? Take five minutes to reflect.

 

Who knows? You might uncover something worth sharing with the world.

 

Ciao for now,
Ash

 

 

P.S. For a deeper dive into storytelling, check out our Storytelling Playlist on Youtube