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Stories we Tell to Inspire

February 20, 2015 | Marketing

By Suzy Rounce

We all tell stories, every day about our day, our experiences, our past, our dreams. Stories are simple, complex, long and short. They make us laugh and cry, and I think it is safe to say that they bring us together (and sometimes tear us apart). Why am I talking about stories? Because they are what makes us feel connected to each other and what drives and inspires us.

All of the companies we work with have a story to tell. Everyone does. From each person we meet we get the pleasure of drawing out WHY they started their company, HOW they strive for more and WHAT makes them tick. We embrace our creative and curious spirits to uncover what story is in them to tell.

“Why is the thing that inspires us and inspires
those around us.” -Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek’s book Start with Why talks about this with regards to leadership and inspiration. He looks a what makes some ideas/entrepreneurs succeed and what causes others to fail. It usually has nothing to do with money, opportunity or fame, though it is easy to blame any one of those reasons. I think it is about determination and vision. Above all else you have to believe in your story. I guess to back up, first you have to know you have a story and define it. It is there. Somewhere in your history there was a moment, a reason, an opportunity, a challenge that spurred you to your current position and direction. Your story doesn’t have to be an epic, a grand journey of self discovery and struggle. The humble simple stories are just as engaging. Statements starting with “we believe”, “we have a dream”, “we feel”… each of these matters.

So start telling stories. Not just any story, but yours. That will drive an inspired group of followers to go wherever you may go. If you can describe your company in such a way that speaks to the why of what you offer, then we can easily put ourselves right by your side as an ally and as a friend.