While spreadsheets are the language of management information, stories are the language of leadership inspiration. Stories can activate our deepest, best selves; they are certainly one of the most transformative of all leadership tools. Powerful narratives can bridge the authentic, essential depth of a leader to the complex breadth of strategy, culture, values, and purpose.
Yet despite the nearly universal recognition of their inspirational impact, we rarely examine and master their effective and affective use in leadership development.
Humans are story beings. From cave paintings and oral histories to novels, films, dance, and digital media, we are driven to create, share, and absorb stories.
Likewise, the shortest distance between a leader and collective inspiration is a heartfelt story.
