What’s YOUR story?
14 Jun
If we asked you to tell us your story in one minute…what would you say?
With the prospect of having to conveying your life in just 60 seconds, your internal dialogue might go something like this:
My story? Where do I start? Childhood? We’ll be here all day! No, I’ll start with what I do… “I’m in Marketing.” Yes…But that’s not who I am! That’s just how I pay the bills… Shit, there goes 15 seconds!”
Few people are prepared to ‘sell’ themselves at all…let alone in one minute (and women tend to be more adverse to this than men). But your story has defined you. It encapsulates your values, your passions, what you stand for…and it’s worth sharing.
So how do you communicate your story?
1. Firstly, avoid falling into the trap of defining yourself by the role you fill in society - be it in sales, marketing, finance, or fashion. Paricularly if it is not your core passion. If you happen to be in recruitment by day but your real joy comes from flamenco dancing and poetry writing by night, working at the soup kitchen on weekends, or stealing away to travel the world at every chance you get …reflect on why you’re drawn to these things. There is most certainly an inspiring story hidden in there!
2. Each of us have had a myriad of experiences that have molded and shaped us into the person we are today. Think about what gets you fired up. What makes you angry? What makes you happy? What inspires you? And why ? What in your life that has evoked these emotions, these passions? This is the core of your story.
3. Embrace vulnerability. For those of us with stories born out of pain, confusion, ignorance, or hardship, it can be daunting to share our stories. But this is where the heart of stories lie. Authenticity and raw emotion allow us to connect and relate to each other’s stories. In turn, our stories inspire and motivate others, making the world a more beautiful and connected place.
4. Keep it simple - Few people have time for the details. You want to get to the heart of who you are today. So, share the experience(s) that have shaped your values and passions, then make it clear how they play a role in your life today.
Taking the time to reflect on your story allows you to convey it clearly, concisely, and honestly, increasing your confidence, and inspiring others. And as soon as you’re ready to share it with the world, we’ve got the perfect platform for you to do it!
A few weeks ago, we mentioned an exciting media project launching later this year designed to ‘open societies, connect communities, and create happier human beings.’ This Place is Yours is an open invitation to tell your story and engage with stories of others.
Intrigued? Check out Seema’s story (the founder), get involved and help spread the word!
We want to hear YOUR story.
