A story needs friction to be interesting. There must be a purpose to pursue and a source of conflict to overcome. We seek meaning from stories. Without stakes, without struggle, without uncertainty, it falls flat and we lose interest.
Unfortunately these dynamics are more enjoyed in movies, books, and plays than the fabric of our actual lives. People love the plot twists and surprising turns on their favorite shows, but where is that same energy for their own story?
People will binge dysfunction on screen while complaining about it in their workplace. They are thrilled by drama on the page while resentful of it in their home. They are captivated by emotion on stage while angry at it in their relationships.
Of all the stories you’ll ever see, read, or hear, yours is by far the most important. Not because you are more important than anyone else, but because it is uniquely yours and you are in charge of it. Your story affects countless other people’s stories, just as theirs affects yours.
Your story must have a purpose to pursue and a source of conflict to overcome. The uncertainties and struggles in your story are what keep it interesting and give it meaning. The friction in your life is only the seed of the most important part of your story.
Everything is training for something. Do the work.
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