Six word stories can say lots.
Published May 8th, 2008Sometimes when I go out and talk about the ideas in AWNM, I have time do some exercises with the audience.  And one of my new favorites is the six-word memoir,which helps demonstrate and hone the power of story.The idea comes from the endlessly entertaining book, Not Quite What I Was Planning
and not write their autobiographies in just six words.  For example, Stephen Colbert’s six-word memoir is “Well, I thought it was funny.” Another: “Found true love, married someone else.”  There were several gems ones at the business conference I attended today.  Here are a few of my favorites (all penned by people who had about five minutes to think and write.)  * Navy blue is my favorite color.  * Did what I was supposed to. * Happy, sad, angry, confident, really happy. * Unsure, but you would never know. Â
Andrew on May 8, 2008
Followed the rules; wish I hadn’t.
Dan Pink on May 8, 2008
The story of my life:
Pink. Yes. Just like the color.
Judd6149 on May 9, 2008
“Buy the ticket. Take the ride”
Paul on May 9, 2008
Reminds me of a photographer who handed blank cards to people of all walks of life, asked them to write whatever they liked on it and shot them holding the card. The results were amazing - funny, sad, brave, poignant - every story was there.
My 6 word memoir: Found a new groove almost everyday.
Jeffrey Cufaude on May 9, 2008
Living my fourth draft. Revising regularly.
Mark Juane on May 11, 2008
There’s gotta be a better way.
The Financial Philosopher on May 12, 2008
Be. Know. Do. Become. Reflect. Repeat.
Mad Gringo on May 12, 2008
Ooh, shiny! Change course. Oops. Shiny!
Steve Bannister on May 12, 2008
Hey Dan, thanks for the post!
Eric Grasso on May 12, 2008
Hi Mr. Pink,
Recently you commented on my friend and Principal Ray Dewar’s blog. I was thinking what person has to be like when they are creating constantly and still taking the time to connect with people. I am envious. As a high school math teacher I can’t help but admire your work. You create, edit write, and reflect with a huge audience. I feel my calling is writing and dream to accomplish much more. You have given me a role model. I just want you to know what your focusing on grows. My girlfriend told me to write you and I had it in my mind so when you commentted to Ray I had to sent this. Ray shared your book with me in September and my students know all about your work. I will continue to spread the word on how to know and be yourself.
Not exactly six words, I know
Learn everything until heart can’t beat
Coach Justice on May 13, 2008
Deep as Ocean, Shallow as Puddle.
Mark Dyck on May 13, 2008
Read lots. Thought lots. Did lots.
Hey, that’s kind of like a fortune cookie! Add “Dan’s Books” at the end, sorta.
Read lots of Dan’s Books (OK, two)
Thought lots about Dan’s Books. (true)
Did lots based on Dan’s books (certainly with A Whole New Mind, and starting with Johnny Bunko)
It doesn’t fit near as well as “in bed” but it’s getting there