I decided to sit at the very front of the conference. A keynote speaker was speaking on “The Power of Story“. Clearly, I love stories, so I was excited to listen to her share her perspective.
She, Jennifer Aaker, is a Professor at Stanford and the most approachable, genuine and sweet woman. I sat with 1,070 other people and listened to her speak to my heart about what drives me: stories.
She graduated with a Doctorate in Mathematics and now teaches about stories. She is my soul sister. Spending her days teaching her students why stories are more important than data, but that paired together they are profound. A Doctor of Mathematics, teaching about why data isn’t as important.
Stories are about connection, data is about respect.
I found myself overwhelmed with gratitude.
First, because she was an educated woman speaking about the importance of meaningful connection. Second, she was speaking to a room full of Sales & Marketing leaders who were predominantly male, about how sharing and encouraging meaningful stories should be the primary focus of every leader.
I almost did not come to this conference, but there I was. Listening to everything I believe in being confirmed by a Doctor at Stanford.
Ernest Hemingway wrote the famous six word story
For Sale: baby shoes, never worn.
You are left to infer what you will.
You are left with emotion you can’t explain.
You are left with unanswered questions.
She tasked us with a 30 second break and asked us to write our own six word story.
Immediately the word “love” came to my mind and within seconds I had written down my own six word story.
It is love. Is it not?
She asked us to share our story with our neighbor. My new New Zealand friend read his to me and I then read mine.
I’ll never forget his words. “Wow, that’s incredible. That is so deep.” Our conversation continued for quite some time…and I now have a forever friend across the ocean.
Stories enable connection in a way nothing else can.
What is your six word story?
Always in love,
