Newsletter Issue #13: The 7 Habits of Great Storytellers

Hello, Storytellers!

In Storytelling Made Simple, we’ve been exploring how to create memorable stories that resonate deeply. This week, we will be looking deeper into the habits that make the world’s best storytellers so impactful. These habits can transform the way you approach storytelling, helping you connect, influence, and inspire like never before.

Think of these habits as your storytelling toolkit—ready to make each story a great experience.

The 7 Habits of Great Storytellers

Yes! I know some of you have read the book “7 Habits of Highly Effective Leaders” by Stephen R. Covey. Great Storytellers have some of these habits in common too. ?Read this edition and you will find out which of these habits you possess as a great storyteller.

Habit #1. Great Storytellers Stay Curious

As great storytellers, we are constantly observing, asking questions, and seeking out new experiences. We understand that every interaction is a potential story. You can practice this habit by starting each day by noticing something new around you. What’s a story that could come from it?

Habit #2. Great Storytellers Listen Deeply

Listening is where powerful storytelling begins. When you listen with empathy, you uncover stories others might miss. Some of you may want to check your genes if you have storytelling DNA. Before you take the StoryGene test, in your next conversation, aim to listen twice as much as you speak. Take note of any “hidden” stories you can come up with to strengthen this habit.

Habit #3. Great Storytellers Know Their Audience

Successful storytellers understand who they’re speaking to and what their audience values. This shapes how they frame and deliver their stories. Before your write next story, ask yourself: What does my audience care about most? Craft your story to meet them where they are and based on their needs.

Habit #4. Great Storytellers Craft with Clarity

A great story is clear and concise. It avoids unnecessary details and keeps the focus on the main message. Next time you write a story, try to convey it in three sentences. Break it down to the simplest form without any complexities.

Habit #5. Great Storytellers Find Emotional Anchors

Emotion is what connects us. Great storytellers know that a story must evoke feelings to be memorable. To take a test on whether you have this great storyteller habit, think of an emotional moment that impacted you. What story could you build around that feeling to make it relatable?

Habit #6. Great Storytellers Embrace Vulnerability

Real stories often involve sharing parts of ourselves. The most memorable storytellers aren’t afraid to be vulnerable, revealing their own struggles or mistakes. Share a story this week about a time you faced a challenge. Don’t shy away from your true feelings at that moment.

Habit #7. Great Storytellers Rehearse and Refine

Great storytelling is an art, and it takes practice. The best storytellers rehearse, revise, and continuously improve their stories. One way to try this habit is to pick one of your favorite stories and revise it. Tell it to someone close to you and ask for feedback.

Reflect & Share: A 7-Day Storytelling Habit Challenge

For the next week, let’s put these habits into action! Try one habit each day:

• Day 1: Practice staying curious by finding a story in your surroundings.?
• Day 2: Deepen your listening skills in your next conversation.
• Day 3: Identify your audience’s needs before crafting a story.
• Day 4: Write a three-sentence version of a story for clarity.
• Day 5: Anchor your story to an emotion that resonates.
• Day 6: Share a vulnerable story with someone you trust.
• Day 7: Rehearse and refine your story for feedback.

After the challenge, share your thoughts and any stories you created with us on LinkedIn using #7HabitsStorytelling! The power of intentional storytelling is what brings us together and inspires us even better as great storytellers.

Thank you for being part of this storytelling journey. Here’s to more impactful stories, stronger connections, and personal growth through each narrative you share. Stay tuned for more tips and techniques in our next issue of "Storytelling Made Simple"!

Click here for further discussion on LinkedIn

"Every story has the strength to uplift, transform, and connect us to the deeper truths of our shared humanity. It is not just in the telling, but in the listening, where we find the courage to shape a better tomorrow"- quoting self

Cheers,

Lateefat

Storytelling Coach