In the beginning of the chapter, we are shown that we memorize stories better than facts. Cognitive scientist Roger C. Schank says “Humans are not ideally set up to understand logic; they are ideally set up to understand stories”.
We then get introduced to “the hero’s journey”, a blueprint from tales since humankind’s earliest days. It has three main parts: Departure, Initiation, and Return. Daniel Pink gives us several examples of this, including his own book.
There are countless examples of storytelling in business, and we are given a few, namely in real estate. Also in medicine, storytelling is becoming part of medical schools’ curriculums and gaining importance.
In the Portfolio section of this chapter, we are advised to write mini sagas (stories exactly 50 words long), to visit storytelling festivals, and to record interviews with friends and family members. Pink also lists several books on storytelling he thinks you should read.
This is part of a series of posts I’m doing while reading Daniel Pink’s book A Whole New Mind.
Other Chapter summaries:
Chapter 01 – Right Brain Rising
Chapter 02 – A Whole New Mind
Chapter 03 – High Concept, High Touch
Chapter 04 – Design





