Once, during a particular season of struggle, I was talking with a friend about myself, and a lightbulb went on: I was telling a story of struggle. I had heard this story before.
Often when I have reflected on my life and my work, my focus has been on the hard parts of the journey. But now I was ready to change my perspective – and my story.
Scripture tells us “let your gentleness be evident to all.” So I was thinking that we should include ourselves in that “all” and find a gentler way to tell the stories of our lives and times.
A lot of complaining comes from within, you know? I have discovered, however, that it is possible to shift the focus away from concern and complaint and toward a more hopeful and grateful point of view.
But it does take some practice and attention.
I call it Story Shaping.
I’m Minnie Lamberth, and I’m a writer in Montgomery, Alabama.
Over the last 30 years, I have listened to hundreds of stories. Usually these were the stories businesses were trying to tell – because my work has been in the marketing field. I’ve listened as well to countless individuals trying to present their own stories.
Often the storytellers discount the remarkable, thinking it’s just routine. Ordinary. Nothing anybody would be interested in. Yet as I’ve listened, I’ve been able to help them reframe their story in a way that surprises them.
I can help you redirect your story too – away from the negative or “nothing much to tell” point of view and toward a sense of wonder and appreciation for the remarkable life you’ve lived.
For the last year, I’ve been developing Your Story Shaping Blueprint, and I’ll be releasing details very soon on how you can get started on your new perspective. In the meantime, I would like to invite you to join me in The Magnificent Journey, a free weekly e-newsletter delivering purposeful perspective to your inbox. Enter your email address in the subscription box on this page, and watch for your weekly issue.
— Minnie Lamberth
Got questions? Email me at Minnie @ storyshaping dot co or get in touch through this form.