We all tell stories! And, we all listen to stories. We can move people to act by engaging their minds and emotions. When we tell stories, we capture attention. Our stories communicate our ideas and increase our credibility.

Each of us has a compelling story to tell. When we tell stories about our lives or the lives of others, we connect with people through shared information, feelings and experiences. Other people can relate to our stories and often retell them - maybe even adding a little of their own experiences to the stories.

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Components of a story: Most stories are made up of several components which actually help bring the stories to life in the minds of the audience. 

Values, emotion and action or inaction: With a story, we can express our values not as abstract ideas, but as lived experience.  This is what gives us the power to move others.  

Structuring your own story: Your story must include the challenge, the choice and the outcome. Once we hear your story, we, the audience become connected with you, we can “feel” and are inspired by your values.  

Inspiring your story: Stories are important in the workplace. They can help you connect with people or simply communicate ideas to people. Stories can also be used to increase your credibility with their people. Listen and pay attention to the stories of your leaders and your peers.