Curiosity

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What Stories are you Telling?

We all tell stories—to our teams, to ourselves, to our clients.

Stories shape the reality in which we lead. They can uplift, drive change, or reinforce the status quo. But, what story are you telling without even realizing it?

Curiosity starts with questioning your own narrative.

Reflect on these questions:

• What story are you telling about your leadership today? (e.g., If you see challenges as opportunities for growth, the narrative you convey becomes one of possibility.)
• How do your actions align with that story?
• What would change if you chose to tell a different story?

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Who are the Heroes?

Every leader has a choice: to be the hero of the story or the guide.

Which role do you choose? Heroes get attention, but guides inspire others to take the lead. Imagine what could happen if your team saw themselves as the heroes—people capable of greatness, innovation, and resilience.

Curiosity leads you to this shift: who in your team could benefit most from stepping into the hero’s role?

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Insight

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Memorable Stories

Harvard psychologist Jerome Bruner found that stories are remembered 22 times more than facts alone (Bruner, 1991).

A carefully crafted vision statement may pale in comparison to a simple story that shows what that vision looks like in action. Storytelling is primal; it's how we've shared knowledge across generations. When you tell a story, you invite others not just to hear, but to feel.

As a leader, this ability to connect through feeling is what makes your message memorable.

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Meaning in Times of Ambiguity

The best leaders use storytelling to create meaning in times of ambiguity.

During times of uncertainty, stories provide context—they make complex issues relatable. For example, when Howard Schultz returned to Starbucks in 2008, he didn’t present a list of changes. Instead, he spoke about his father's struggles and how Starbucks could continue to be the kind of company his father could could only have dreamed of working with.

Schultz told a story that people wanted to be part of, not merely witness, which allowed him to build trust through a period of uncertainty.

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The Impact of Stories

According to research by Paul Zak, a neuroeconomist, storytelling releases oxytocin, which creates a sense of trust and empathy (2015).

Leaders have a critical role in building trust. Sharing stories with vulnerability encourages others to do the same. The more stories are shared by you and your team—especially with true, human moments—the more trust you build as a team.

Leaders who embrace this can create teams that trust deeply and engage authentically.

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Action

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The Art of Storytelling

To craft an impactful story, start by identifying the key message you want to convey.

Every good story has an arc: a setup, a struggle, and a resolution. Begin by setting the context—describe where and when the story takes place, and introduce the characters involved. Then move into the challenge—what obstacles were faced, what was at stake, and why did it matter? Finally, close with the resolution—how was the challenge overcome, what changed, and what was learned?

A good story is not just about facts; it's about the human experience behind those facts.

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Incorporate Impactful Stories

Use stories to make your leadership messages stick.

Next time you lead a meeting, anchor your point with a story. It can be a short, authentic anecdote—maybe about something your team accomplished last week or even a recent personal experience you had with your family. People respond to stories more deeply than they do to lists or bullet points. Sharing wins, lessons, or challenges through storytelling makes abstract ideas real and relatable.

Make it a habit: Share a meaningful story in your next team huddle to reinforce your key message.

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Create Space for Their Stories

Dedicate part of your next one-on-one meeting to uncovering your team's stories.

Ask a simple question: “What’s a moment that shaped who you are today?” These moments have immense potential for connection, inspiration, and understanding. Listen with genuine curiosity, without interruption or an agenda.

Use these stories to better understand what motivates your team, identify hidden strengths, and foster deeper trust and connection.

Storytelling is a tool that shapes how your team sees you, themselves, their team, and their work. Use it with intention, and make each story a catalyst for growth and connection.

Thank you for joining me this week. Feel free to forward this to someone who might benefit from it.

Here’s to leading with purpose and curiosity!

Cheers,

Del

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