We'll begin here: believe it or not, you're always telling your story. Every day in fact.
It isn't your whole story, but it is a story.
Every day someone asks you, 'How are you?', or 'What happened today?', or 'What did you do at the weekend?'
Sometimes, all that's wanted is a quick, 'Fine, thanks'. But have you ever met someone who gives you a much more interesting response? Have you ever asked, 'What's going on?' and been utterly compelled by the response?
Whether it's the simple story of last night's party or the complex, emotional story of your life, we believe that your story matters, so we want to give you the tools to tell it well.
Here are 10 simple steps to help:
1. Think of a conflict/struggle as the centerpiece of your plot
You're telling your story for a reason. You want to explain something, to show something to your listener that they wouldn't have otherwise known. That something revolves around a struggle of some kind. A difficulty, a problem, an obstacle. It can be big or small, but it should be there. Great writers, great storytellers put the conflict of the protagonist at the heart of the story, and you should too.
2. Identify the theme
The conflict you identify will inform the theme of your story. That theme is key to keeping your story together. Think about how you (or your central character, if the story isn't about you) changed as a result of overcoming (or not) the obstacle that was presented to you. That change is the theme. Keep it mind as you tell your story.
3. Create a hook
You want your audience to buy into your story, to invest in it, to want to hear more. To keep them on the edge of their seat, you'll need to create a hook. This hook is a question - implicit or explicit - a question that you will answer through your story. By creating an engaging hook, you'll ensure your audience wants to listen to your story until the end.
4. Follow a basic narrative structure
There are all sorts of formulas for structuring a story. The simplest and most effective, particularly for oral storytelling, is to follow the narrative's logical structure. Begin at the beginning and follow the events through to the end.
5. Build up around a one sentence summary
You may find it helpful to brainstorm before you shape the story you're going to share. Try beginning with a one sentence summary. Describe your plot, theme and hook in one sentence. Then, write one paragraph, building out on those elements. Finally, fill in the details and turn your paragraph into a story.
6. Be brief
Don't include too many details. However good the story, people only have a limited attention span. The last thing you want to do with your deeply personal story is to send your listeners to sleep. So, keep it simple and focus only on the necessary stuff.
7. Focus on emotions, not a comprehensive account
The golden rule of storytelling is 'show, don't tell'. That is, use your words to help the audience experience the story, rather than just hearing it. Give them description to fuel their imagination. The best way to do this orally is to focus on emotions. This is the easiest way for your audience to connect. Don't give us all the details (remember: be brief), but do help us to feel what you felt.
8. Be vulnerable
The more an audience connects with the story, the more compelling it will be. There's no doubt that vulnerability is a huge asset here. Allow the walls to come down, even if only a little, and the audience will trust you more and appreciate you more. Be wise about who you open up to, but don't be surprised when being vulnerable captivates your listeners.
9. Show us you care
How can I not care when you're so passionate? Put passion into your story. Show it through animated body language and express it with your tone of voice. If it's a sad story, let your emotions move you. If it's a happy one, say it with a smile.
10. Reflect at the end
There's always a point to a story. This is your chance to help your audience connect with your theme. Answer the question you posed as a hook and explain how you changed through the struggle.
And one more bonus tip:
11. Practice. Practice, practice, practice!
If there's a story you want to share well, then share it often. Tell your story to people you trust and watch their reaction. Do they stay interested? Do they stay engaged? How long do they stay interested for? Can you tweak, edit or cut your story to improve their reaction? Edit and practice it again!
Your story matters and we want to hear it. If you're willing, why not share your story below? We're also on the look out for great Ismaili and Christian stories to share on our website, so do get in touch with us if you'd like to share - ismailifriends@gmail.com