Ignite Immediate Empathy with Storytelling
Kindra Hall Kindra Hall
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 Published On Feb 2, 2023

Read this Post: https://www.kindrahall.com/blog/ignit...
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Good morning good morning. I hope you’re great and ready for a little story thought this morning.... Not so much a TACTIC, but a thought...

And this thought came to me as I was on my way to JFK airport the other day — RIDING in the car // let’s face it, I DO NOT drive in Manhattan... that would be terrifying... for everyone... So I was on my way to the airport, gazing out the window when a car drove by in the right lane... and as it pulled past us, I caught a glimpse of the sticker on the bumper.

It said: New Driver. Be Patient.

Such a small statement.... but it immediately triggered a flood of emotion. Not, like, STRONG emotion — I wasn’t weeping — but rather a wave of empathy. I suddenly felt compassion for that driver. I remembered when I first learned to drive (in rural MN, mind you, not New York City — though... gravel road and deer can be tough!). In a flash, I felt connected to a stranger... all because I caught a glimpse of their bumper sticker... a glimpse of their story.

Now, I know you’ve heard this before — right? That quote that says something to the tune of — have compassion because you never know the story someone else is living... And, yes, this is essentially the same thing.

But think about how little it actually takes... a very small piece of a story can instantly increase empathy. Can instantly connect and unite.

So. If you’re in a place where you need a little empathy from others, share a glimpse of your story. If you are in the middle of two parties/or entities/or groups who just can’t seem to get along... maybe it’s time to share glimpses of their stories. IF! YOU! Are struggling to connect with or understand a colleague or a client or a family member — ASK for a glimpse of THEIR story.

Just like in the car that day... a little story can go a long way in bringing us all together.

In the meantime, I might get one of those stickers...just in case I ever decide to drive in New York.

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