THE WORLD IS MADE OF STORIES

Surely, you might argue, the world is not only made of stories. There are atoms, trees, giraffes, smartphones and skyscrapers. There is physics, biology, engineering and hard data. We survive thanks to food, oxygen, shelter, medicine and computing power. Stuff we can measure, manipulate and manage. And you are right!

But try making it through the day without a story. Go ahead, try it.

Without stories there is no history, no family, no country, no morality, and no creativity.

Without stories there is no war, no peace, no lying, and no truth-telling.

Without stories there is no culture, no art, no faith, no sense-making, and no reason to get out of bed.

Without stories there is no financial system, no institution of any sort, and no leadership.

No company can exist without a story. Neither can a brand.

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Through contemplative practice, we may observe that our sense of SELF begins to dissolve as soon as we let go of our story - a valuable insight, no doubt. And yet, the mystical realm tends to inevitably circle back to the mythological. Just look at how ancient traditions, rituals and legends endure the test of time.

We are made to believe that modern information technology will help us overcome our subjective tendencies. After all, who needs stories when algorithms and chatbots can show us the way? Good luck with that.

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Regardless of differences in language, geography, occupation and creed, everyone gets the symbolism behind David vs Goliath, femme fatale, the ugly duckling, the rising phoenix, the devil’s advocate, the magic kingdom, a rebel without a cause, a diamond in the rough, a philosopher king, or a Jack of all trades. We tell and re-tell tales featuring a similar cast of characters because they provide us with a shared sense of purpose and understanding, as well as the reassurance that our individual and collective potential can be realized.

Indeed, the world is made of stories. For better or worse. They are everywhere. They are the water we swim in. They shape us just as much as we shape them.

More importantly, not all stories are created equal. Some stories are more engaging, more compelling, and more useful than others.

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?