you’re still on mute

I talk…
a bit too much,
(or a lot of bit, depending on who’s asking.)

from a very young age, the force and plentitude of sounds that would come rushing out of my mouth the second I’d barge home from school, would never cease to amaze my parents (and their, now sensitive, ear canals…)

fast forward 3 decades and, to this day, talking remains my main indulgence, a weakness I’ve consciously chosen to embrace.

much like a dieter who wishes to continue eating their favorite foods but is compelled to find a healthier alternative,
I too, had reached a compromise

I wouldn’t talk less,
but I’d talk better

I’d pay attention to cues,
I’d make it about them,
I’d educate and entertain…

but most importantly, I’d listen,
I’d become a storyteller;
and of the many labels sewed on me, this one’s my favorite.

it’s a life skill I’ve brought with me to work,

every time I write copy, I imagine taking the reader out on a walk…
we’d start with the promise of an easy, relaxing walk, surrounded by gorgeous scenery, to which most people agree to.

the more complex and boring my words grow into, the faster and more difficult the trail becomes.

with my mind’s eye, I visually draw an image of them having to duck under tree branches, sky’s pelting them with rain, a steep incline is visible in the distance…

and unless my avatar is a fan of Spartan races, they won’t last on my imaginary trail very long.

expecting the viewer to make an effort to understand your offer is one of biggest mistakes I see brands make…

storytellers have figured out how to keep an audience’s attention for hours, it’s not so much the length, but the clarity and resonance of your message that makes you heard.

in a world full of beautiful trails, make sure yours isn’t put on mute.

I’ll see you tomorrow.

today is day 180 of the year, there are 185 days remaining of 2022.