Something I have struggled with is over explaining things to others. Sometimes this is because I want them to see and appreciate the whole picture, micro details and all. I get very distracted an engrossed in small details of stories, and that can make the story as a whole very chaotic and nonsensical/nonlinear. I will catch myself doing this while talking, but I feel too committed to stop and simplify. Sometimes I will manage to slow down and focus on the core of the story, but other times I will stop talking about the side tanged—acknowledge that I went off course— and then resume the original story plot. But many times I will end up sharing 5 stories under the guise of 1. This way of sharing stories, while fun and not a terrible way to spend time with friends, is not an efficient way to share information or stories when selling to clients/prospects. The stories we share as salesmen must be simple. Stories with branches can distract from the purpose of the story and the vision you want to convey to the prospect. When we share a story, we need to make sure there is a core point/vision, we need to focus the story on that vision —to keep from muddying the point— and make sure it is simple and moving. Stories should evoke clients/prospects to be motivated to move when they listen. We as sales people need to balance our passion with effectiveness, that way we can deliver stories that are relevant, moving, concise, and not long winded. If we keep the image of the pain funel in mind, we can sufficiently limit our enthusiasm and curb unnecessary stories or talking.
johncourak23 
murraylg23