Storytelling is one of the most creative and effective ways to convey messages, emotions, and ideas to others. Storytelling is a craft and considered a form of art; it is acquired and learned over time. However, it is very rare to master it off the cuff. It takes years of practice, honing the craft. It is an important skill that people use to persuade and inspire others to act. Many leaders who leveraged the power of storytelling often become one of the most influential persons in the history of mankind. Few leaders like Barack Obama, for example, became a star after giving a sensational speech at the 2004 Democratic Convention. He knew the power of storytelling and his story was a special one. His speech was about an introduction of himself to the nation, and a story about ‘Hope and Change’. Many Americans find that they can relate to his stories, and this led him to becoming the 44th president of United States.
Storytelling is more than just art. It has value in initiating change and transformation. Stories can change behaviours and motivates people into action, and even helps keep people on course towards their goal. A good storytelling does not only help people shift their behaviours, but it also promotes listener’s well-being. Several studies have shown that when listening to good and compelling stories, our brain releases dopamine that keeps us engage, and oxytocin which is a neurochemical associated with empathy: an important element in building and maintaining good relationships.
Storytelling is essential. People need stories. It is a way to engage, entertain, influence, teach or inspire others. If you or someone you know who wants to hone their storytelling skills, the Storytelling Toronto can help. Storytelling Toronto is a charitable organization founded by seven storytellers in 1979 as the Storytellers School of Toronto. Storytelling Toronto is a creative centre for story-lovers who share a passion for and a vision of storytelling as a transformative art in contemporary life. Visit their website at storytellingtoronto.org to learn more about their work and courses.