Explaining Social Issues with Stories
Telling a personal story can be one of the most liberating and scary things you might ever have to do!
It means taking the time to understand your past, while being true to your present, and surrendering to your future. Our personal story is just that – it is a story that we feel speaks to the essence of who we are and what we have been through, and resonates to a wider audience the person we are today. If your audience is (a) kid(s), then a personal story can have an even bigger impact. Read on to learn more about why personal stories can make a bigger impact on kids:
One: Personal stories help build connections. Humans fundamentally crave access to the stories that move and inspire them. And, these stories often carry a significant amount of emotion. Interestingly, the word ‘emotion’ comes from the Latin word ‘emovere’ which means to ‘move’. The ability to move the audience through a story is key and in order to move someone, we can tap into emotion. When we are telling personal stories, we enable an emotional connection that is key to a child’s development.
Two: We can share the world. One of the most amazing things about sharing personal stories is that we are able to share the world….we are able to bring far-away places and amazing adventures right to our very living room. And, these personal stories can be in the form of biographies, or autobiographies or even by telling stories of amazing things that are happening right now. Personal stories have the power to make the world feel more connected, which is more important than ever.
Three: Authenticity counts. Another reason personal stories are so important is because kids can feel authenticity from a mile away. And, if a personal story resonates authenticity at its core, then it will be truthfully and honestly consumed by its audience. A personal story – when told honestly and truthfully – can do just that, and as a result, bring the child even closer to the tale.
Four: Personal stories teach personal acceptance: A personal story can help teach kids that nothing is perfect, but everything is fine. How? By sharing stories with all their challenges, mistakes, failures, pains, glories, joys and successes, kids learn that there are ups and downs and they can develop the right skillset
Five: Personal stories open up space for personal growth. One of the most wonderful things about personal stories is that they open up space for personal growth – not just the growth of the kid or the audience member, but also that of the storyteller. And, going through a journey together is a great way to build a relationship.
So, go on and tell your story! The world is ready to receive it.