What stories do you tell?

“What stories are you going to tell about us?” she laughed.

I laughed, too…nervously.

During our session, I’d told stories about my own reflections from the horses and what I’d witnessed as a facilitator in previous equine assisted workshops to illustrate concepts and insights.

Her question made me wonder, what had the stories I’d told during this session illustrated about me, my previous clients and experiences?

Whether I’m speaking with a branding project client or prospective client or participants in an equine assisted facilitation workshop, stories are always part of the conversation.

Stories are memorable and relatable.

They’re used all the time to connect, entertain or persuade.

When we listen to stories, our brains are searching for patterns and meaning-making.

From what we take in, we’ll infer values, intention and character.

Our brains scan for subtext, telling details or stories of our own that sound and feel familiar so we can relate, sometimes we even share them in response, to connect.

I tell stories to show clients what’s possible for them and to let them know that they’re not alone when they feel frustrated or confused during the journey of building a business and brand.

From the horsework, there are dozens of observations I’ve made about how and what the horses teach and about the levels of depth you can explore. I never share names or identifying characteristics of past clients, just high-level details.

I’m so grateful she asked me that question, it got me reflecting back to the basics of my own work and the concepts and values I want to illustrate through my storytelling.

My stories should reflect:

• Judgment-free spaces in this work to be yourself and to be with whatever comes up (emotions, reflections, stories, visions, values)
• Integrity–I work in service of you, I always do my best, I’m continually learning so I can be an excellent brand strategist and coach
• Joy and Fun–we take work seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. There will be laughter
• Understanding–everyone is unique and valuable, I listen to understand you, we go deep so I truly get what you mean, understanding = connection, I get you and how important your vision is to you
• Truth–we uncover what’s true for you, the spaces we co-create allow for you to be yourself, when you build your brand and business on the truth, you’re unstoppable
• Trust–find the place that feels grounded and where you trust yourself, find the clarity and confidence and you’ll be able to make progress, trust that I will honor the confidentiality of what you tell me
• Impact–you want to make a positive difference in your relationships, your work and your world
  

Try this exercise for yourself!

Start with paying attention to the stories you tell (no judgment, just awareness) We all have a list of go-to stories that we tell to entertain, to connect or to illustrate who we are. What are some of yours? What do they show? Would you change anything about them?

Warmly,
Jocelyn

P.S. If you’re contemplating a rebrand, it can be a daunting task. I put together this free video series to help you navigate the process with confidence. Click here for instant access to Rebrand With Confidence.