Audio available in app
Use concrete examples to make ideas more relatable from "summary" of Made to Stick by Chip Heath,Dan Heath
To make ideas more relatable, it's crucial to use concrete examples that can bring those ideas to life. Think about it: when you present a concept in abstract terms, it tends to float in the ether, disconnected from reality. But when you ground that concept with a specific example, suddenly it becomes more tangible and easier to grasp. For instance, imagine you're trying to explain the importance of regular exercise. Instead of saying, "Exercise is good for your health," you could say, "Regular exercise, like going for a brisk walk or taking a spin class, can help reduce your risk of heart disease and boost your overall well-being." By painting a vivid picture of what exercise looks like in action, you're not only making the idea more relatable but also more compelling. Concrete examples serve as mental Velcro, allowing your audience to latch onto the concept more easily. When you share a real-life story or a vivid image, you give people something solid to hold onto, making the idea stick in their minds. This is why anecdotes, case studies, and visuals are so effective in driving home a point - they provide the necessary context and detail that help people connect with the idea on a personal level. Moreover, concrete examples help bridge the gap between the abstract and the everyday. When you're discussing a complex or unfamiliar concept, using a concrete example that your audience can relate to can make all the difference. It's like building a bridge between the ivory tower of theory and the streets of reality, allowing people to walk across with ease.- Using concrete examples is about making your ideas more human and down-to-earth. By showing rather than telling, you can transform abstract concepts into vivid, relatable experiences that resonate with your audience. So next time you want to make a point that sticks, remember to bring it to life with a concrete example that speaks to the hearts and minds of your listeners.
