As a storytelling coach, I’ve worked with a variety of professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, and coaches. Over time, I've encountered many misconceptions about storytelling—ideas that stop people from harnessing this powerful tool. In this post, I’m diving into the four major myths about storytelling that I hear all the time, and how to break free from them. Ready? Let’s get started!
Myth #1: All Stories Need a Happy Ending
It’s easy to blame Bollywood and Netflix for this one. Most stories we consume have a hero, a villain, and a feel-good conclusion where everything works out just right. But in the world of business and personal storytelling, that formula doesn’t always apply.
Sure, a happy ending can be heartwarming, but it’s not the only option. In fact, some of the most impactful stories have endings where things don’t go as planned. Think about it: sharing a story where you faced a setback, learned a lesson, and made a change can resonate deeply with an audience. These stories can highlight lessons learned and best practices—without needing a picture-perfect ending. As long as the takeaway is valuable to your listeners, you’re golden!
Myth #2: You Must Be a Natural Storyteller
Yes, some people seem like they were born to captivate an audience. They have a natural charisma that draws you in. But here’s the thing: most of us are not like that. And that’s okay!
Storytelling is a skill, not an inherent trait. Just like learning to play an instrument or mastering a new language, you can improve your storytelling with practice and guidance. When I started my corporate journey, I was far from great. In fact, during one high-stakes presentation, I rushed through an hour-long talk in just 15 minutes, nearly costing me my job. But I worked on my skills, attended workshops, and invested in coaching. Fast forward, and storytelling is now my full-time passion.
So, if you think you can’t become a great storyteller, think again! With practice and dedication, you can go from fumbling through a story to owning the stage.
Myth #3: Good Stories Have to Be Long
This myth makes me chuckle. We’ve all been there—listening to a speaker who just won’t stop talking. Some people think that a long, detailed story is more impactful. Spoiler alert: that’s not true.
While a lengthy story can be effective in the right context, shorter stories can be just as (if not more) powerful. Especially in business and presentation settings, keeping it concise is often the better approach. A short, focused story that delivers the key message is far more effective than a 20-minute tale that loses the audience halfway through.
Remember, it’s not about the length of the story; it’s about how well you deliver the message. So, the next time you’re telling a story, aim to keep it brief and impactful.
Myth #4: Stories Are Only for Big Moments
This myth suggests that stories are only meant for grand achievements—like scaling Mount Everest or landing that dream job. Sure, those moments make for fantastic stories, but storytelling is not limited to such milestones.
In reality, some of the most meaningful stories come from everyday experiences. Maybe you had a simple conversation that left a lasting impression or a small moment that taught you a big lesson. For example, I recently spoke with a technician who casually mentioned, “We have to dig our well every day before we drink from it.” It was a lighthearted comment, but it made me reflect on how many people earn their living day by day and how grateful I should be for what I have.
Stories like this may seem small, but they can hold powerful insights and connect deeply with others. Don’t wait for the big moments—embrace the small ones too.
Ready to Bust These Myths and Become a Storytelling Pro?
If you found yourself nodding along and want to dive deeper into the art of storytelling, I’d love to invite you to my next Secrets of Storytelling Masterclass. I'll walk you through three secrets that can transform you into a captivating storyteller.
Remember, stories aren’t just for campfires and TED Talks. So, grab your storytelling boots and let’s get to work—minus the marshmallows! 🍫🔥
PS: Which of these myths surprised you the most? Let me know in the comments! And if you think storytelling is only for bedtime, you’re in for a wake-up call. See you at the masterclass!
4 Storytelling Myths That Hold You Back—And What You Need to Know Instead