The real power of your message? It’s not in one story—it’s in the many ways you can tell it.
One of the biggest mistakes I see authors and experts make is believing they have just one story to tell. But a single, rigid narrative limits your reach, your impact, and your opportunities so let’s expand beyond this idea. Because the truth is, your story has layers, angles, nuances, and infinite ways to connect with people. It’s not just what you say—it’s how you say it and who you’re speaking to.
So, let’s broaden how we think about storytelling. Here are five different ways to tell your story—and why they matter:
1. Your Origin Story
This is your “how it all began story”. The spark that set you on this path. Maybe it was a personal struggle, an aha moment, or a challenge of some kind that changed everything. People love this because it builds connection and credibility. Readers and audiences want to know the why behind your work—it makes them root for you and this can have an amazing impact on others.
Where to use it: Podcast interviews, about pages, keynote speeches
2. Your Transformation Story
People love stories of change: From surviving to thriving. How did you go from struggle to success? What obstacles did you overcome and how? This version of your story is compelling because it offers hope and inspiration to all who hear it. It’s not just about what happened—it’s about what you learned and how that lesson can help others.
Where to use it: TED-style talks, book intros, personal essays, and social media posts
3. Your Data-Driven Story
Sometimes, numbers tell the best story. Do you have research, statistics, or real-world results to back up your message? This approach positions you as an authority. But here’s an important tip: More is not always better. A single powerful statistic can be far more impactful than five. Too many numbers, and people glaze over. Use data to sharpen your story, not drown it.
Where to use it: Business media, trade publications, industry conferences
4. Your Relatable Anecdote
Not every story has to be a grand, sweeping tale. Sometimes, a single moment—a childhood memory, a conversation with a stranger, or an unexpected realization—makes your message deeply human. And when you share emotion, you create connection. People may forget facts, but they remember how they felt listening to you.
Where to use it: Social media, newsletters, short blog posts, book chapters
5. Your Future-Focused Story
Where is your work leading? What’s the bigger mission? Readers and media love visionary storytelling—when you paint a picture of what’s possible and invite others to join you. This is where you shift from where you’ve been to where you’re going, and it can be incredibly powerful.
Where to use it: Op-eds, future-oriented talks, social movements
Your Story is Bigger Than You Think
If you’ve been struggling to land media, connect with readers, or get people to care, ask yourself: Am I telling my story the same way every time?
If so, it’s time to break free from the “one-story” mindset.
So here’s my challenge for you this week: Take your story and tell it differently. Try a new angle. Experiment with these five approaches and see what new doors open. Because you are not just one story—you are many. And that’s exactly what makes you fascinating and unique.
To your success!
Joanne
P.S. “I wanna see you be brave!”
#tellyourstory
#bebrave
#secrettomoremedia
#bookmarketing
#bookpublicity
#havesomeheart
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