Stories Only Stick if They Are ‘Sticky’ – Part 6: Why the stories themselves are ‘sticky’?

This is a six (1/2!) part series which breaks down the different elements featured in “Made To Stick” by Chip and Dan Heath.

“And when our children tell our story, they’ll tell the story of tonight.” --Hamilton, an American Musical.

A good story is like a Super Hero. After all, as the tagline for my company StoryMatters says: “…because stories change hearts and minds.”

After all:

• Stories create empathy.

• Stories create memories.

• Stories are how we teach.

• Stories are how we learn.

• Stories are how we convince.

• Stories are how we retain information.

• Stories are how we create legacy in families and corporations.

• Stories are lies we tell ourselves that limit us.

• Stories are lies we tell others to limit them.

• Stories are truths we tell ourselves to power us through tough times.

• Stories are truths we tell others to empower them.

That’s why when the elements of Simple, Unexpected, Concrete, Credible, and Emotional are put into a great story that is well told, it is so powerful.

In fact, a good story can act like a Villain if it is told for evil purpose.

So remember, with great storytelling comes great responsibility!

When you tell stories, be the Super Hero, and tell your stories for the greater good!