-Ananthan Suresh Faculty@ StartupYou
I’ve always believed that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have. Think about it—no matter who we are or where
we come from, stories have the unique ability to connect us on a deep, emotional level. From childhood bedtime tales to
gripping novels, and now to the digital stories we consume daily, storytelling has been a constant companion throughout my
life and, I’m sure, yours too.
But what is it about storytelling that has kept it alive through the ages? And why does it matter so much today? Let me share
some personal insights and experiences about how storytelling has shaped my life and what I see as its broader impact on
individuals, businesses, and society in our fast-paced, digital world.
-Ananthan SureshFaculty@ StartupYou
The Universal Appeal of Storytelling
When I was younger, my grandparents would often gather us around the fireplace and tell stories about their childhood. They spoke of
a time when things were simpler, and life moved at a slower pace. While their experiences were vastly different from mine, I was
always hooked. I realized later that it wasn’t just about the content of their stories, but how they made me feel. Their stories connected
me to a part of my history, to values and experiences that shaped who I am.
That’s the beauty of storytelling—it doesn’t matter if you lived the experience yourself or not, stories have the power to make you feel
like you did. They transcend time, culture, and personal background, drawing us together in a shared human experience. In today’s
world, where we’re often overwhelmed with information and rapid communication, I think stories offer a rare moment of reflection
and connection.
Storytelling as a Tool for Change
One of the most remarkable things I’ve seen, especially in recent years, is the way stories have sparked real change. I’ll never forget the
first time I came across the #MeToo movement on social media. It started with a single story—one woman bravely sharing her
experience of harassment. But that story didn’t exist in isolation. It inspired thousands, if not millions, of others to come forward with
their own stories.
I remember being moved to tears as I read these stories. They weren’t just headlines or statistics anymore; they were personal, raw,
and heartbreaking. It was a powerful reminder of how much stories can do—they don’t just inform, they stir emotions, build empathy,
and inspire action. This same dynamic has played out in countless movements, from #BlackLivesMatter to environmental activism.
Stories have the power to shine a light on injustice, giving a voice to those who may not have had one otherwise.
Storytelling in Education
As someone who loves to learn, I’ve always been fascinated by how much storytelling can enhance education. I remember sitting in a
history class as a teenager, and my teacher would spend hours lecturing us about dates, wars, and political changes. It was hard to stay
engaged. But one day, she decided to shift gears and tell us the story of one soldier’s experience during World War II. Suddenly,
history wasn’t just about events on a timeline—it was about real people with real emotions and struggles. That story made history
come alive for me.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve seen how storytelling can be a powerful educational tool, not just in the classroom but in professional settings
too. When I lead workshops or speak at events, I always start with a story. It sets the tone, grabs people’s attention, and makes the
learning more relatable. Facts and figures are important, but it’s the stories we remember.
The Neuroscience Behind Storytelling
It turns out that there’s actual science behind why stories are so impactful. I recently read about a study showing that when we listen
to a story, our brains light up in multiple areas—language processing, emotions, and even sensory experiences. Our brains can’t help
but engage deeply with a well-told story. That’s why stories are so much more memorable than raw data or statistics.
Interestingly, our brains release oxytocin when we hear a good story. This hormone, often called the “love hormone,” helps us feel
empathy and connection. That’s why I feel so drawn to certain stories—they quite literally make me feel more connected to others.
The Future of Storytelling
Looking ahead, I’m excited about how storytelling will continue to evolve. With the rise of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality
(AR), stories are becoming more immersive. Imagine stepping into a story, experiencing it as if you’re really there. It’s mind-blowing
to think about how this will change the way we engage with stories.
But no matter how much technology changes, I believe the heart of storytelling will remain the same. It’s about connection. It’s about
emotion. And it’s about understanding the world through the lens of others. Whether you’re telling stories to inspire, educate, or
simply entertain, I believe there’s never been a more exciting time to be a storyteller.
In a world that’s constantly moving, storytelling is the thread that ties us all together, reminding us of our shared humanity.
