How to be a Great Storyteller

There’s a good reason we’ve been using stories to persuade each other since our earliest days. More than any other form of communication, stories have the power to inspire loyalty, to take us out of the present moment and let us consider ideas from a fresh perspective, and to make us understand things on an emotional level. So if your goal is to change minds and move people to action, it’s a good idea to master the art of storytelling. 

Here are my top 3 techniques on how to be a great storyteller:

Technique #1: Collect great stories. 

The difference between a decent story and a great story is that it makes a point that resonates. These stories can be useful when you need to relate to someone and make your point. Next time you hear a truly great tale, write it down.

 Exercises for collecting stories:

 ? Jot down the takeaways or lessons from books and movies 

? Think back on memories or stories that have impacted your life and note down why

? Who are your role models? What about their stories inspire you?

? Have you had any life pivotal failures, successes, relationships or overall learnings that you can draw from?

Technique #2:  Learn from the best. 

 Find examples of storytellers that you admire personally and figure out what makes them great. You’re looking for techniques both large and small that you can apply to your own storytelling. Who are some of your favorite storytellers and why? 

 I use Muhammad Ali’s story to show how combining skill and purpose creates legacy. 

Technique #3: Do not to overlook familiar stories. 

It’s tempting to believe that great stories need to be original—or at least unfamiliar—in order to captivate your audience. But this isn’t always the case. In fact, recounting a story that your audience knows already can sometimes be more powerful than telling them one they’ve never heard.

I have used The Giving Tree as an example of how generosity is linked to happiness.