How to Help Someone Share Their Story

How to Help Someone Share Their Story

September 25, 2019 by

How do you help someone share their story in a way that they’re excited for others to see?

The first time I tried sharing someone’s video testimony, the storyteller said something that stuck in my craw. They said, “I was embarrassed when I watched my story.” That statement messed me up. Was it because I had done a bad job? Or because they felt insecure about themselves?

I don’t know—but it didn’t really matter. I was embarrassed that they were embarrassed, and I vowed to make sure no one would be ashamed by their testimony video again.

But in reality, what I’ve learned is this: Most of us are insecure about our story. We feel inadequate about how we look, how well we communicated, and even how big of a change we’ve experienced.

Telling stories affects the one who shares it just as much as the one who hears it.

Here are a few things I’ve learned about telling stories that minister to both storyteller and viewer:

  • Find the story: The first step is realizing that the stories are already there. Will you actively look for them?
  • Get to know the story and the storyteller: Share a “Stories Questionnaire” with the storyteller to help guide them.
  • Determine the best medium to share the story: Is it a quote, an article, a video, an in-person testimony?
  • Capture the story.

Get the full resource for in-depth tips on how to help someone share their story, including the Stories Questionnaire.

More:

This month we’re talking storytelling on our Courageous Storytellers membership site. We’ve got a wealth of resources all focused on story. Check out what’s available to help your church tell stories and consider joining Courageous Storytellers today.

Post By:

Dustin Keele


Dustin Keele is the communications director at Elevation Church based out of St. Louis, Mo. He loves excellent graphic design, amazing photography, good conversations over coffee, and egg rolls.
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