We all can learn a thing or two from Jesse

Issue #3

Welcome back to The Authentic Voice! I’m glad you’re here for another issue, where we dive into the power of stories and the resources that help us tell them better.

In today’s issue, I want to cover two things:

1. A story: I usually prefer to share my own stories because I believe they connect most deeply. However, when you tell someone else’s story, sharing it from your perspective or adding your own insights can help retain its emotional power. Today, I’m sharing a story about Jesse, my coach’s son, which left a strong impact on me.
   

2. Resources: A book about storytelling that’s a must-read for anyone serious about learning how to tell better stories, along with a podcast interview with the author.

Storytime

On a sunny afternoon at Cal Berkeley's campus, Jesse approaches a fellow student. 

“Hi, I’m Jesse,” he says, extending his hand with confidence. 

Jesse isn’t actually enrolled at Cal. In reality, he’s a community college student, but he’s determined to build connections here, believing that one day, this will be his school.

Each time Jesse meets someone new, the conversation unfolds in a similar way. 

“What’s your major?” he asks with genuine curiosity. When they return the question, he confidently replies, “I study business.” 

They often ask, “So, how do you like Cal?” That’s when Jesse smiles and says, “I’m not actually a student here. I’m at a community college in the East Bay, but I’m getting a head start by making friends and building a community here in Berkeley.”

What’s surprising is how welcoming the students are, even after learning Jesse isn’t one of them. 

Rather than dismissing him, they engage with him, admiring his courage and determination. 

Some even become his friends, drawn to his authenticity and boldness.

For most people, Jesse’s approach might seem unusual, maybe even risky. 

Jesse knows he might be judged when he admits he isn’t a student at Cal, but he doesn’t let that stop him. 

He shows up as his true self, willing to be vulnerable in his pursuit of his goals.

Jesse is only 18 years old, yet he already understands something many of us struggle with: the importance of showing up, even when it’s uncomfortable. 

His story is a reminder that the courage to be vulnerable and authentic is often the first step toward achieving our goals.

So, I ask you: What fears are holding you back from pursuing a dream you have? 

Maybe it’s the fear of what others might think. Maybe you don’t feel ready, or you think you lack the necessary knowledge.

That was me before starting this newsletter. I kept telling myself to wait until everything was perfect, like the name, the logo, and the ideas. 

But then I realized, just like Jesse, there’s nothing to fear except fear itself. This realization reminded me of a powerful quote that has stuck with me:

“At 18, people are preoccupied with what others think of them. At 40, they become indifferent to others' opinions. At 60, they realize that most people aren't thinking about them at all.”
~unknown

This quote is a powerful reminder that no one thinks or cares about us as much as we think they do.

In the end, the only person who can be held accountable for what you did or didn’t do is yourself. 

At the end of your life, the biggest regrets often come from what you didn’t do, rather than from what you did.

Palliative care nurses (those who provide care for patients near the end of life) have observed this time and again in their patients. 

So take that first step, even if it’s uncomfortable!

Recommended Resource:

If you’re serious about becoming a better storyteller, Matthew Dicks’ book Storyworthy is packed with practical advice on how to find, craft, and tell better stories. It’s a must-read and cannot be overlooked.

For a deeper dive into his approach, check out Ali Abdaal’s interview with Matthew Dicks. The conversation goes beyond storytelling, exploring how Matthew’s focus and discipline help him achieve so much. It’s a must-listen if you want to elevate your storytelling game and live a more fulfilling life.

It’s never too late to become a better storyteller.

~Rico

P.S. I'd love to hear your thoughts! What do you think about this perspective? Feel free to share your feedback or ask any questions.