Use stories to change others’ way of thinking

Well, hello there! Did you know that stories are 22x “stickier” in our minds than stats and data and all other forms of information? Yeah, we remember stories a lot longer than data…and, we remember who told us those stories. As I say that, I’m sure you’re thinking right now: “What’s a story I remember? Who told me that?” 

Stories are powerful. They unlock a lot of things for us: relationships, lessons, information and so much more. and, when stories are told for the right reasons and in the right way, they truly can change the world. So let's talk about the right reasons and the right way. 

Stories told with purpose are so impactful and with purpose I mean to say two things: 

• ONE- you have a powerful motivator and reason for sharing that story and 

• TWO - you have a relevant and useful call to action for the listener. 

A call to action is perhaps the most powerful part of any story; it's what you direct your audience to do with the information you just told them. And - back to purpose - we can tell stories for all kinds of purposes - use your power for good! 

Today, practice telling your story. Speak out loud what happened in a specific moment that you faced a challenge, what action you took, how it all ended up turning out (the result) and the lesson you learned from it! Hell, you don’t even need a live audience - just imagine one. I’m serious. Great communicators aren’t born, they’re practiced! This is a really powerful exercise…because here’s the rub: you’re going to be talking to yourself all day anyways. Your stories as a leader - as a human - must be cultivated. They need to be sounded out, practiced, tested and shared. So, today: speak out loud what happened in a specific moment when you were paused, surprised, challenged or brave, what led you to that moment and what steps you took next, how it all ended up turning out (the result) and the lesson you learned from it!

Now here’s your next two boss moves:

1. Practice being able to tell your stories in about 2 minutes or less and,

2. Go earn the right to hear the stories of your peers and your team. Interview them, listen to them.

I heard it said once that a good boss knows your title, but a great leader knows your story.

Be a great leader. Tell stories, listen to others’ and change the world. 

Okay, my friend…I’ll see you soon!

♥

Andrea