Never underestimate the power of a few good words strung together.
As much as pictures may be worth a thousand words, stories touch hearts, they connect us.
They remind us of what it is to be human.
Inspirational stories are powerful
They are capable of moving people to tears, or to action.
A story well told has the power to tap into our dreams, our hopes, our fears.
Stories are how we make sense of our lives
There are many famous speeches throughout time that shook the world.
Like Winston Churchill’s inspiring speeches that galvanised and heartened those fighting and enduring the dangers of World War II.
Then there’s the “I Have A Dream” public speech delivered by American civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. in which he called for civil and economic rights and an end to racism in the United States.
And the many speeches of Nelson Mandela who, throughout his lifetime, dedicated himself to the struggle of the African people.
Telling stories is one of the most powerful means that leaders have to influence, teach, and inspire.
So what makes stories touch hearts?
Here are my 6 Tips on how to tell stories that touch hearts
#Tip 1: Be sure to make a good first impression
Marketing experts say you have three seconds to make a great first impression.
That’s just three seconds to connect with your audience and make them fall in love with what you have to say.
It’s important to remember that how you say something is as important as what you say.
From the outset your words should prove to your audience why they should care about you and your message.
You headline must be catchy.
It should intrigue people.
Make them curious.
You have to engage your audience and encourage them to read your article.
#Tip 2: You have to show you care
Style matters but substance rules.
Tell an actual story, a case study, rather than rattling off information and statistics about your product or service.
People will engage with what you have to say when it resonates with them; when your story connects to their personal lives and experiences.
They will always comprehend and retain stories, much more than facts and figures.
#Tip 3: Infuse your story with emotion
We humans are driven by emotion.
And so are most of the decisions we make and the actions we take.
Paint vivid pictures with your words.
Injecting emotion into your story will connect you and your passion to your audience.
So go ahead and get emotional.
Tell your stories with meaning.
#Tip 4: Develop attention to detail
Stories imbued with the five “classical” senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch, help to put your readers in the moment.
They not only get the picture, they feel they are a part of the story.
Good storytelling is powerful when the words you use stir your reader’s imagination and connects with their senses.
#Tip 5: Don’t use annoying and meaningless buzzwords
Stories littered with cliches and buzzwords are like a death sentence to your story.
Use them sparingly, if at all.
On the other hand, a witty remark or a clever turn of phrase when used appropriately, is refreshing and can magnetise people.
#Tip 6: Less is more so be specific
I am a great believer of keeping things simple.
It is possible to tell a great story, to get your meaning across, without rambling endlessly.
Being able to say what you want with impact and emotion in as few words as possible, is definitely a skill worth honing.
Our attention spans are getting shorter, faster.
So be kind and considerate with your audience.
When telling a story make sure you keep it concise.
Do away with all the unnecessary and superfluous waffle.
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