Activity Spotlight

The Power of Storytelling

As humans, we are hard-wired to respond to stories. Stories allow us to connect with others, find meaning, and grow. And yet somehow, in the world of technology, we feel less connected in meaningful ways than maybe ever. According to Paul J. Zak in Why Your Brain Loves Good Storytelling, “When you want to motivate, persuade, or be remembered, start with a story of human struggle and eventual triumph. It will capture people’s hearts – by first attracting their brains.” Storytelling, at its core, is about sharing: sharing your experience, your knowledge, and the things that have inspired you. Storytelling humanizes us. We're not just another co-worker, support person, cog in a wheel. Storytelling allows us to see each other as complex human beings. And it often helps us to connect with others we see as different from us. When we see each other as complex human beings, we are more likely to approach others with openness and empathy. This is ideal for working together, navigating conflicts, and coming to an understanding when you disagree with someone else. In this talk, we'll explore the neuroscience of storytelling, how to construct your own story, and the importance of storytelling, and a challenge to put what you've learned into action at this conference.