Dear Reader,

How many of us still remember listening to stories in our childhood? Even at a tender age, we could make sense of the world around us just through these stories.

But no one seems to talk about it anymore. Whenever I ask my friends what are they up to? I usually get “Nothing man, just chilling or watching a movie or feeling bored” and I hate it. It makes me think “Has life become so plain and bland that there are no interesting stories?” and does it even matter anymore?

Yes, it does. Stories are repositories of information, passing down essential knowledge from generations. In present times, stories are a powerful tool for social justice, advocacy, and especially brands.

Why do we still remember classic ads like Fevicol? It’s the storytelling in the ad that glued us all to it. (no pun intended).

But sadly we all are so engaged in this digital world that we are missing out on so many opportunities to create amazing stories to tell.

But it doesn’t have to be like this.

Here are some of my suggestions for creating amazing stories to share with friends, family, and loved ones:

• Be a participant – Participate in as many events, opportunities, and experiences that come your way. Some will be fun, while others won’t be.

For example, when our school planned a rafting trip down the Trishuli River, it was the most fun experience of my life. Nothing could match the thrill of it but it had some bad memories too like when at 4 am a strong storm just blew away our tent and drenched us completely so we had to make a run to the hotel, doing so I lost my only jacket.

• Travel – Who doesn’t like traveling? It not only calms your mind but introduces you to new cultures, new people, and new experiences, and that makes up for a good story. It doesn’t have to be a destination, even places around your city work fine.

The world is so random and chaotic that even if you walk a kilometer you will find your day’s worth of highlights.

• Break Rules – Is there anything more fun than breaking the rules and then not getting a great story? (I am not talking about breaking laws here but spending a day in a police station does make a good story haha).

Once, my friend invited us for a night out. Excited, I left my hostel early only to find myself at his gate, waving at my friend with his parents standing just behind him. Panicking, I hid behind a car, praying they wouldn’t see me.

Luckily, I went undetected. We cooked, watched movies, had some drinks, and went to sleep at 2 am with two of my friend’s having their re-exam in just 5 hours.

We woke up with our eyes still wanting that sweet sweet sleep, we didn’t even freshen up and hopped on the scooter, to somehow reach school at 6 am in the freezing winter of Kathmandu.

Now that was the single biggest highlight of my high school and something I will always remember and share with friends.

Had I been lazy and sat in my room glaring at the digital screen I would have nothing special from my high school. So, “Ditch the digital jungle and experience the outside world”.

Remember, stories aren’t just about grand adventures; they’re also about the everyday moments that make us human. The fumbled attempt at a new recipe, the heartwarming chat with a stranger, the win over a personal challenge – these are all potential stories waiting to be shared and I can’t wait to hear yours.

I hope you enjoyed reading this article. Till then Have a good day 😉

I will see you around.

– Sumit