Sharing Stories Helps Shift Perspective
Gaining clarity through another's eyes.
Time is precious; it's one of our most valuable assets. How a person chooses to spend their time reflects where their priorities lie. It's been a most surprising and completely unexpected reward when a reflection I've shared brings up a forgotten-about memory in someone who then takes the time to share that piece of their life with me. It shows me they trust me and value our connection.
"A story is told eye to eye, mind to mind, and heart to heart." —Scottish travelers' proverb
Swapping stories is uniquely human. It gives us opportunities to become more vulnerable, more approachable, learn more about each other. It ties us together on an emotional level. Even if we haven't had similar experiences, we do share similar emotions, such as joy and sadness, excitement and fear. When someone reaches out and shares their story with me, I'm able to feel the emotions they were feeling.
Sharing stories also helps us understand new perspectives a little better and gain a deeper awareness of our own beliefs. It grants some clarity on times past, helps us notice some truths we may have overlooked.