"We all have a life story and a message that can
inspire others to live a better life or run a better business. Why not use that
story and message to serve others and grow a real business doing it?" --
Brendon Burchard
It has often been said that we may not remember the subject
of a speech or a sermon -- but we always remember the stories. Storytelling is
a powerful and ageless communication device that can capture the imagination
and inspire the heart, mind, and soul. And what story should we be an expert in
telling? Ours!
We each have a unique blend of thinking, temperament, and
experiences that have helped make us not just life observers, but life
participants. Think about the things you've done, the people you've met, the
places you've gone. Make a list of the most important and most memorable in
each category. Chances are what you now have is the makings of a great story --
one that motivates, inspires, and even validates the feelings or experiences of
another. And, while we are all more comfortable talking about the positive
aspects of our story, it is important not to neglect the failures,
disappointments, disillusionments, and
unwise decisions that brought negative consequences in our lives.
I don't believe people are interested in how great we are or
want to ooh and ahh over our great accomplishments. No, I believe people are
more interested in how real we are and how in that sphere of realism we lived,
loved, laughed, cried, and ultimately found some sort of message -- and even a
sense of purpose and destiny in what previously looked like a mish-mash of
unrelated experiences. This is our real story. This is the story someone
desperately needs to hear. Even if only one person is helped or validated as a
result of your story -- all that "writing" you did will be worth it.
I was thrilled to read a story by my friend, Cheree Stokes.
She is actually a friend I found here on LinkedIn. We've found a camaraderie in
our mutual desire to learn and grow -- and in the process found mutual
inspiration. Cheree told a short story of how she embraced the principles of
gratitude, and how she decided to change the way she approached her business.
Most importantly, she talked about the ACTION she took to make it happen. It
was that action part I needed to hear and implement in my own business. You can
read Cheree's story, Never Give Up -- and I sincerely hope you will. #chereestokes
So what about you? Who needs to hear your story? You'll
never know until you start telling it.
About the
Storyteller: Terry Crouson is the Owner and Head Coach at Silver Coach
Solutions, LLC and is currently doing business as The Growth Coach of West
Metro Detroit. He is dedicated to helping business owners, entrepreneurs, sales
professionals, and self-employed professionals find their way by finding their
why. He is a highly respected business coach, speaker, facilitator, and
community builder. Terry is certified in the Strategic Mindset Process, and is
also a Certified Behavioral Consultant. As a member of LIFE Leadership, he is
passionate about helping people from all walks of life discover the joy of learning,
the joy of leading, and the joy of building a profitable business.
