#2 Why Observation Matters in Storytelling

Good Day Brewers - Pang here!

It's unbelievable that January just zoomed past like that.

11 more months till it's 2024.

What's your biggest win so far this month?

For me, it was launching this Newsletter.

And I'm excited to share more stories to help you level up your storytelling game.

Let's dive into today's topic on OBSERVATION.

Estimated reading time: 474 Words - 1 min 59 secs

If you only read my sub-header, you’d be confused.

What’s so amazing about the power of a seedling?

Exactly.

My girlfriend shared something with me a few weeks ago.

Take a look.

Before reading on, take 30 seconds and ask yourself this question.

Can I build a story from this?

What’s so special about a growing seedling?

.

.

.

Now.. let’s zoom in closer to admire this beauty.

This isn’t just any seedling.

It’s a seedling growing through cracks on hard, grey cement.

A lone seedling, nestled in a crack of a concrete wall.

At first glance, it appears to be an unlikely place for life to thrive.

After rainfall, the leaves are covered in a delicate layer of water droplets.

A necessity for the leaves to grow.

The seedling's vibrant green leaves stand out in stark contrast to the dull, grey wall.

But as you look closer, you can see the determination in its stem, reaching toward the sky with fierce resilience.

Even in the most unlikely places, there is always potential for growth and beauty to emerge.

If you would have told a similar story as me..

Good for you.

You’ve great observation skills!

But there’s more..

This beautiful story.

It’s a symbol of hope.

And hope is what inspires us to keep moving forward, isn’t it?

A quick breakdown of how this story was possible..

• Firstly, my girlfriend observed her surroundings and took a photo of something she thought was interesting.

• Next, she sent me this photo, telling me how this symbolizes hope.

• Subsequently, I crafted this story by adding more details to make it sound exciting (BOLD words).

• Lastly, I add a lesson to this story.

All stories begin with observation.

So here’s how you can improve your observational skills:

• 🔍 Pick an object and examine it closely, paying attention to its shape, texture, and color.

• 👀 People-watch and describe the actions, expressions, and posture of individuals.

• 🧘‍♀️ Practice mindfulness meditation and focus on your breathing and the sensations in your body.

• 🚶‍♀️ Go for a walk and focus on your surroundings, noting the different plants, trees, and animals you see.

• 📖 Keep a journal of your observations, writing down what you see, hear, smell, and feel in different situations.

I LOVE COFFEE.

That’s all folks!

Your Barista,Pang

Struggling with telling stories? Reach out to me here.