2 Simple Questions to Create Better Content And Make More Money

Use storytelling to capture and keep attention.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli

If you’ve been studying content creation, writing, marketing, or entrepreneurship for a while, you’ll know that storytelling matters.

Compared to stats, data, and facts, stories stick.

Our ancestors used stories to pass on knowledge, and it’s no wonder they’re still the most effective way to learn, communicate, and fascinate.

The problem is that telling memorable stories is hard. Most of us overthink, don’t know where to start, and have no idea how to tell a story that is engaging instead of boring.

In my work as a writer, entrepreneur, and educator, stories matter because they help me share my unique journey while also creating a more sustainable learning experience for my clients.

Here’s a brilliant quote that might help you think differently about stories:

“Stories are about one person saying to another: This is the way it feels to me. Can you understand what I’m saying? Does it also feel this way to you?”​

- Kazuo Ishiguro

I love this because it’s spot-on for creators who educate, help, and inspire through their work.

#1. Can you understand what I’m saying? means you care about clearly articulating your thoughts so your reader *gets* what you’re saying.

The harsh truth about writing on the internet is that nobody will re-read your sentences if they don’t get what you’re saying. You have to be clear and succinct to capture and keep attention.

This doesn’t mean you can’t create long, deep content. You can, but it has to be engaging, interesting, and clear.

I won’t watch your 10-minute YouTube video if I don’t know what you’re talking about after the first two minutes.

Keep in mind that everyone’s busy and has access to an enormous amount of content.

If your content doesn’t impress, they’ll switch to the next piece with one click. Your job is to convince your audience that it’s worth spending time on your work.

#2. Does it also feel this way to you? means you care about connection.

There’s an abundance of content and ideas being published every second.

We all have enough books to read, videos to watch, or podcasts to listen to. Yet, most content doesn’t connect because it’s repetitive, unoriginal, or unclear.

If you want to stand out and build a long-term relationship with your audience, you have to ensure they understand what you’re saying and feel connected to your message.

Both are easier to achieve through stories than facts.

Here’s how you can put this into action:

#1. When sharing knowledge and educating your audience, think of a personal experience or story that ties into your message.

Instead of saying, “Consistency is key to success,” share a story about how you were consistent with a habit and saw significant results. This makes your point relatable and memorable.

When I wrote about the Butterfly Effect, I shared my butterfly moments and how they impacted my life.

This helps me in two ways:

• It builds connection through personality.

• And it helps my audience better understand the whole concept of the article.