"私が何が起こったかをあなたに話すことには興味がない、彼らに何が起こったかを話すことには興味がある。"

The heart of this quote is all about shifting focus from yourself to others. It's about understanding that stories resonate more when they're about the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of others rather than just your own. When you communicate, it shouldn't be a monologue about your life; instead, it should be about the lessons and insights that emerge from the experiences of those around you.

To give some historical context, consider the words of influential writers and storytellers like Ernest Hemingway or Maya Angelou. They were masters at weaving tales that zeroed in on the human experience, often spotlighting the lives of others to make a broader point. They didn't just document their own lives, but rather, they captured the essence of the human condition through the eyes of various characters.

Think about journalists. A reporter covering a war zone isn't just telling you about the bombs and the chaos they witnessed. They're sharing the heart-wrenching stories of the families torn apart, the resilience of the human spirit amidst destruction, and the hope that somehow survives amidst the rubble. For example, during the Syrian conflict, many journalists focused on the stories of ordinary Syrians—like the girl who turned her basement into a school. Her story wasn't just a headline; it was a window into the impact of the war on real lives, making the coverage deeply relatable and impactful.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by listening more. When you converse, pay attention to the experiences and viewpoints of others. If you’re a writer or a speaker, weave in anecdotes and stories that aren't just your own. Present them in a way that highlights universal themes—struggles, dreams, victories. It helps your audience find a piece of themselves in those stories.

Here’s a scenario to illustrate this. Imagine you’re at a family reunion, and Grandma starts talking about the old days. Instead of just saying, "Back in my day, we walked five miles to school," she tells you about her friend Sarah. Sarah, who despite the grueling walk to school, always showed up with a smile because she loved learning so much. She goes on to share how Sarah’s determination inspired others in their small town to advocate for a closer school. This way, Grandma’s not just reminiscing about her own past—she’s highlighting Sarah’s drive and how it ignited change. It’s more engaging, more relatable, and it leaves you thinking about determination and community spirit, not just the distance to school.

In everyday life, focus on the “them” in your stories. When you talk about your job, don’t just say, "I had a tough day." Instead, talk about your colleague who managed to turn around a project despite tight deadlines, and how their leadership motivated the entire team. It’s richer, more engaging, and it shifts the narrative from a personal complaint to a story of teamwork and perseverance.

By concentrating on the experiences of others, you create connections. You draw people in. After all, everyone loves a good story—and the best ones often aren't about the storyteller. They're about the world around them, seen through the eyes of those they meet along the way.