Storytelling

Section 1 : Components of a story

Each of us has a story that can inspire action. As you learn the skill of storytelling, you will be able to tell compelling stories.  Stories actually come to life in the minds of the audience. Most stories are made up of several components:

• Once upon a time - helps to set the stage so the audience can relate
• Characters - the traits of villains, heroes and others bring the story to life
• Drama - keeps the audience engaged
• New possibility - introduces thoughts about what’s possible in the future
• Lessons learned - everyone can relate to learning a lesson
• Conflict - between people in moments of change or challenge
• Challenging situations - life threatening experiences
• World view - what people take away from the story
• Happily ever after - the warm, fuzzy feeling we get from the story

Some people share factual or strategy-based stories. Others tell personal stories of heart- break or challenge. Both can be informative but may not provide the listener with the choices and a vision for possible outcomes. What happens when there’s no challenge in a story?  What happens when the story is all challenge and there are no outcomes?