What is Your Compelling Story?

Posted by Kathy on May 18, 2009 in Blog | 2 comments

Quote: “If they ever do my life story, whoever plays me needs lots of hair color and high heels.” Charlize Theron

We all love stories, just not necessarily our own.  Most days I am aware that my life is a story with a great beginning and an amazing end. While I can appreciate the stories of people, like Susan Boyle, sometimes I have difficulty seeing what makes my own story compelling. 

Our own authentic stories are like powerful arrows that slide into hearts and souls and change the way people see their lives–their stories. 

It is the difference between 4 bullet points on a slide, showing the four spiritual laws – versus listening to a sincere believer, tell her story of growing up with a an alcoholic mother, who referred to her as a “mistake” and hearing how she found her way to healing and wholeness. Our stories have impact and yet we often overlook them; deciding our plots are thin and unexciting and our lives too ordinary.
You might say, “Who would be changed by a story of a house wife or a single mom?” I say, “The person God sent you to tell it to.”

I believe that for each kind of story there is a resulting impact for a specific audience.  Part of the problem is that our story was never intended to resonate with everyone. We think our story should have all the qualities of a best-selling book, instead, try thinking about it as a series of short stories with connecting themes. 

This week, I challenge you to consider your own stories, write down the overarching themes that run through your life and begin to see the value of storytelling in a whole new light.  What is your compelling story and who in your life needs to hear it?

Here are just a few types of story to consider:

Inspirational: an underdog story like David & Goliath
How To: stories that walk people through difficult issues and show them how you resolve problem.
Personal Example: revealing, intimate stories of challenges past and present that helps take the mystery out of themes like, leadership, marriage, singleness, and motherhood.
Adventure: Heroes and action. Usually someone is saved against incredible odds.”
Kitchen-sink drama: ordinary stuff at home that translates into extraordinary wisdom and insight.

May the end of your story be the beginning…

Kathy Vick C.L.C.
www.fluentlifecoaching.com
www.runlikeagirl.org
503 886 9642