Throughout history societies, communities and groups have relied on stories as a way of bonding, sharing traditions, expressing beliefs and customs and to simply learn. Much of our culture can be found expressed in our stories. And, just as our stories come from culture, they can also change our culture.

In the societies, communities and groups in which we’re a part of today, stories can take on a whole new level of richness and purpose. This is particularly evident in the stories that arise in our organisations, our businesses and our institutions of learning.

Basically stories can serve to:

• Establish, reinforce and guide strategic direction
• Allow us to make better decisions
• Influence outcomes
• Be a beacon for the future

So stories, when used in these ways, become far more than just storytelling. They become story work and they can do so many things for us as we seek to mobilise, engage and inspire the people with whom we come in contact.

Stories make it possible for a group of people to make sense of something that is fluid and changing.

Stories also allow information from an organisation (whether its a business institution or a learning institution) to guide and influence the learning within that organisation.

Furthermore, the simple art of sharing stories supports team building and strengthens common understanding in the participants.

How to make a start? Simply tell a story. Quite often you will get a story in return.

So embrace the power of stories and become enfolded in the work they can do for you.