Lesson 3: How to Make Your Message Stick – The Psychology of Memorable Speaking
“The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.”
– Steve Jobs
Why do some speeches echo in our minds long after they’re over, while others fade instantly? The answer lies in how our brains process, store, and retrieve information.
This lesson introduces three proven psychological principles that will help your message not only land but also last.
1. The Storytelling Effect – Emotion Makes Memory Stick
When you hear a story, your brain lights up. Literally.
Research shows that stories activate up to 7 different brain regions, including those responsible for emotions, sensory experiences, and memory. In contrast, dry facts usually activate only two.
That’s why a story about a shy student who overcame stage fright is more memorable than a chart showing public speaking success rates.
Practical example:
Instead of saying:
“Public speaking is a valuable skill.”
Try this:
“At 21, I stood frozen in front of my class. But three years later, I confidently led a team presentation that won us a major client.”
Why it works: Emotion + imagery = long-term memory encoding.
2. The Repetition Principle – Say It Again (but Differently)
The Spacing Effect tells us this: we remember best when information is repeated over time, not crammed all at once.
But this doesn’t mean repeating the same phrase. Skilled speakers reinforce messages by using:
Analogies
Metaphors
Anecdotes
Rephrased summaries
Example:
Start your speech by saying, “Confidence begins with clarity.”
Then build your points around it. And end with: “When your message is clear, your confidence follows.”
3. The Contrast Principle – Surprise is Sticky
The brain is wired to notice differences. When your audience expects one thing and gets another, they pay attention.
Use:
A sudden pause
Humor in a serious moment
A striking image on a silent slide
A surprising statistic
Example:
Most people expect a calm introduction. Imagine starting with:
“My first public speech was a disaster. I cried. I froze. I left the stage.”
Unexpected? Yes.
Authentic? Even better.
Summary Takeaway:
To be remembered, don’t just inform—engage.
Stories build emotional connection.
Repetition ensures retention.
Contrast keeps attention.
Together, they make your message unforgettable.
