[originaltext] Hello, everyone. It is my great honor to give a speech here.

Hello, everyone. It is my great honor to give a speech here. In previous speeches we have shared our experience regarding the use of storytelling as one of the most powerful leadership tools available to modern leaders. (22) It’s really no surprise, since leaders throughout the ages have used personal stories, parables and anecdotes effectively to ensure that listeners could easily absorb and integrate information, knowledge, values and strategies.
    Except merely understanding the power of stories, however, there remains the need for specific action and commitment to become a storyteller. I hear people say: "Sure, I can see your point about telling stories… but do I really need to make the effort to become a storyteller myself? It doesn’t seem to come naturally to me." (23) My answer is always something like: "Yes, I understand. And there was also a time when walking, reading and writing, typing and using a computer program seemed unnatural. But when you clearly understood ’why’ learning these skills was worth the time, you simply got busy and did it. Right?"
    So in this speech I want to remind you of the compelling reasons why it is worth your time to become an effective storyteller, in the hopes that more managers and leaders will just get busy learning to tell stories instead of just spewing out information, directives and platitudes. Here are some of the many reasons why it is so worth it for you to decide, today, to become a great storyteller.
    First, people remember and share stories. The human brain is actually structured to retain memories in story format, with a beginning, middle and end. (24) Long after listeners have forgotten your data, they will remember your story, and the wisdom embedded within it. And, if your story is authentic and compelling they will eagerly share it with others. Many leadership stories from your personal experience even have the potential to go viral, taking on a life of their own, spreading far and wide in your organization or social networks.
    Second, stories engage all the senses, memories and the emotions. Try this now, following my instructions exactly: I now forbid you to imagine a purple elephant. I repeat: Do not think of a purple elephant right now. Further, I forbid you to imagine a purple elephant on roller skates, whizzing down a mountain road at 100 km per hour, with a bright red scarf around its neck, streaming behind it in the breeze. And do not imagine the blissful smile on the purple elephant’s face as it goes whizzing down the mountain, freedom of the ride.
    OK, how did you do? (25) The fact is, once you hear my words, I instantly engaged your imagination and you have installed a purple elephant in your imagination. At the same time, you have accessed your own memories of moving at high speed, feeling joyful, bright red and purple colors. Stories are immediate, engaging and irresistible. I told you the story, but you created it in your own imagination, and you now own it. Perhaps you even smiled as you had fun doing this.
    Start telling stories! Stories can transform your relationships with people and make you a stand-out leader. So go for it.
    Questions 22 to 25 are based on the recording you have just heard.
    22. Why have leaders told personal stories throughout the ages?
    23. What is the speaker’s purpose of mentioning skills like using a computer program?
    24. What is the benefit of telling stories?
    25. What will happen if you’re forbidden to imagine a purple elephant?