Crafting a story that will communicate and be impactful for people can seem a daunting task however we have put together a short ‘how to’ on helping you craft your story so that it doesn’t take hours and also communicates what you need it to.
STRUCTURE.
Planning and structuring your story is the most important part. The structure below forms the basis of all good stories. Why? Because stories are about learning how somebody else solved a problem or overcame a situation. Stories have this structure because this is the structure of problem-solving.
Initial Situation – First, we need to show the world without the problem, so we can explain what the problem was and why it matters. A little bit about who you are; where you come from to set the scene for people.
Problem and Exploration – The first half of your story is about defining a problem you faced and exploring it. At this point you know that what ever problem you have or situation you are facing is not a trivial problem. As a result, you are missing a key insight. This may be after a period of trying and failing at many things.
Midpoint– In the middle of your story, you discover what you need to solve the problem. In our case that would normally be how we came to knowing that the only solution we have that can help us in the situation or life problem is Jesus. That revelation of Jesus is what is going to change the script and path. How did it come about? Did someone invite you to church? Did go to an Alpha course?
Exploration of the Insight– In the second half of your story, it can be good to revisit the past previous exploration and problem, but with the new insight and revelation of Jesus and the impact it makes. For example, this relationship was tough and now its better.
The 2 halves of stories are symmetrical: in the second half, you revisit the events of the first half in light of the transformation that has taken place.
Solution – Finally, your story movers towards a conclusion of how this transformative power has been used to transform your life and that being a follower of Jesus has helped solve or resolve some of the issues you faced.
Aftermath – This section is to highlight the contrast between the initial situation you started with and the solution that you found. That is why we go full circle so that everyone can see the difference that it has made and the difference in you through your story.
TOP TIPS
- It is better to focus on the problem that was most pressing that enables you to communicate the story easily to the people listening. You don’t need to tell every detail about every part to make an impact.
- Try to sketch out the 6 elements of your story in about 5 minutes. Once you have the overview you can then craft each part to link into each other.
- 5 minutes to tell a story may not seem long but it can pack a lot of information. Try and paint a picture with your words.