What are the elements that make long motivational stories effective?

Well, first, there should be a struggle. A character facing challenges and not giving up easily is key. Then, there has to be a transformation. Maybe from being a nobody to achieving great success. And the story should have an emotional aspect. It could be the character's passion, determination, or hope that makes us feel something and get motivated. For instance, in the story of Helen Keller, her struggle against blindness and deafness and her transformation into a great writer and activist is very inspiring. The emotions of her perseverance and the hope she gave to others are what make the story so effective.

Suspense is key. For example, in a story where a character is being followed, not showing who or what is following right away keeps the reader on edge. Another element is the use of the unknown. Like in a story set in an old, creepy house with strange noises coming from rooms that the character can't see into. It makes the reader's imagination run wild.

One important element is the protagonist's struggle. For example, in the story of Nelson Mandela. He fought against apartheid in South Africa. His long struggle in prison and his unwavering belief in equality are what make the story so inspiring. The difficulties he overcame show the power of the human spirit.

Suspense is a key element. For example, in a story where a character is alone in a dark house and hears a creaking noise, not knowing what's causing it right away builds suspense. Another element is the unknown. When the source of fear isn't clearly defined, like a shadowy figure that the protagonist can't quite make out, it's scarier. Also, a sense of isolation, such as a person being stranded in a remote place, makes the reader feel more vulnerable and thus makes the story scarier.

One element is the use of common horror tropes. For example, things like haunted houses, ghosts, and monsters. These are cheesy but effective because people are already conditioned to be scared of them. They create an instant sense of fear.

One element is the element of surprise. For example, in a quick story, when a character thinks they are safe and then suddenly something unexpected happens like a monster popping out. Another is the use of the unknown. If the setting is a dark, mysterious place like an old cellar where no one really knows what's in there, it creates fear.

Surprise endings are important. Since the time is short, a sudden twist at the end can leave a big impact. Like in a story where a character thinks they've escaped danger but then in the last minute, they find out they're still in the middle of it. Also, the use of the unknown. Not fully explaining every detail, like a mysterious figure in the shadows, makes the story scarier as our imagination fills in the blanks. It keeps the audience thinking about it even after the 5 minutes are over.

Surprise is a key element. For example, in a short story where a character seems to be in a safe situation, like sitting in their living room, and suddenly a hand reaches out from under the couch. It's unexpected and scares the reader. Another element is the unknown. When there are things that are not fully explained, like a strange noise in an empty attic that the character can't identify, it creates fear.

The use of the senses can make little creepy stories effective. For instance, describing a cold touch that sends shivers down the spine, or a strange smell that fills the air in an empty room. Unsettling sounds like creaking floorboards or a distant moan also add to the creepiness. And the sense of something lurking just out of sight, waiting to be discovered, keeps the reader on edge.

The psychological aspect also plays a big role. Scary stories often play on our deepest fears, like the fear of death, the fear of being alone, or the fear of the dark. They can also create a sense of paranoia in the characters, which makes the readers feel the same way. For instance, a story where the main character is being stalked but can't see who is following them taps into our fear of being hunted.