Right now, someone in your life is creating a story about you that isn't true. You're probably doing the same about them. And neither of you realizes it's happening.In this thought-provoking talk, René Rodriguez reveals one of the most powerful psychological forces shaping human perception and connection. Drawing on three decades of research in applied neuroscience, he uncovers how our brains automatically fill incomplete information with stories—and why this matters for every relationship in your life.From unanswered text messages to unexplained silences, narrative gaps surround us daily. Our minds can't tolerate these voids, so they create stories to fill them—often stories that reveal more about our fears than reality. As technology fragments our communication and distances us from each other, understanding this phenomenon becomes crucial for building authentic connections.This isn't just about better communication—it's about transforming how you interpret silence, navigate misunderstandings, and connect with others in an increasingly disconnected world. By recognizing the narrative gaps in your life and choosing how to fill them, you'll discover a pathway to deeper empathy and more meaningful relationships.René challenges us to become conscious creators of the stories that shape our connections, reminding us that "we become the stories we choose to believe." René Rodriguez is a behavioural neuroscience expert, leadership strategist, and bestselling author with more than 30 years of experience. He has advised Fortune 500 companies, educators, and entrepreneurs on how to use storytelling and science to improve influence and communication. In his TEDx talk, René breaks down how internal narratives are formed and how they shape every decision we make. He offers accessible, research-based tools that allow individuals to challenge limiting beliefs and build more intentional, empowering versions of their personal stories. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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