This is an excellent piece and what you say about TED talks is valid unless the person speaks in the first person and tells their story in that narrative.

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Then perhaps even with different facts one can identify with the message. This is a skill I learned attending AA meetings. The facts of the speakers story often were vastly different than mine. I could sit there distinguishing myself in my head and make sure I got nothing out of the story, or I could listen beyond the facts and find parts of the story with which to identify, which would often be found in a feeling. In that way I can learn from anyone's story. This is why I hate listicles. Do not tell me what to do. Share with me and then we can share alike.

Please Stop Telling Readers What To Do