What Skills Are You Learning This Year? I am Learning Story Telling!

Two years ago, I discovered the art of storytelling. Like any new skill, I dedicated a month to learning it, and the results were astounding. My presentation skills improved significantly, culminating in several conference awards. The benefits were not limited to the stage; teaching and business conversations also evolved. Stories build community, especially when audiences identify with the narrative.

As a qualitative researcher, I am drawn to the rich narratives that shape human experiences. Storytelling naturally aligns with this focus, allowing data to go beyond numbers and become personally meaningful. Renowned thought leaders such as Brené Brown and Seth Godin emphasize the power of storytelling to foster trust, strengthen communities, and inspire action—far more effectively than raw statistics alone.

This year, I am dedicating the entire year to mastering storytelling. Research presentations and papers need not be confined to figures, formulas, and charts. Presenting data in a relatable narrative resonates more strongly with readers and listeners. For anyone looking to start, it helps to open with a relatable hook, use vivid language, and incorporate conflict and resolution. These elements ensure that your message truly resonates.

Storytelling has enriched virtually every aspect of my work. In the classroom, students remain fully engaged when lessons are presented through stories, and in business settings, conversations become more impactful. One standout example involved explaining a complex study through a brief personal story that highlighted real-life implications. Readers and listeners grasped the significance of the findings much faster because the narrative made the data more accessible.

Which new skill are you exploring this year, and how do you plan to apply it in your professional journey?