Stories are weirdos. They're also magical.

We use them to soothe children to sleep, teach lessons, and share ideas. 

Professionally, we can use them to inspire others, lead change, and help people to know we have their backs.

I spent the beginning of my career working as a drama teacher.  One day after four weeks into the course, an adult film-acting student gave me a thank you card.

I said, "We still have six weeks to go. This is early."

"It's a thank you for what you already taught me. Before this class, I didn't hold my own at work. They recognized that I was a good employee, I showed up and I suggested improvements once in a while. But, since taking this class, you helped me to see what was unique about me and how I could express that better. I know you were teaching it to help me be a better film actor, but I used some of those things at work. Especially at meetings. And last week, the CEO tapped me about an opportunity. We talked about it a few times and today I was promoted to Director of my division. I change how I showed up and told stories, and all of a sudden it was like they could see me. I became visible. Do they let you accept a customer tip here?"

This is the power of stories. You have all the skills and experience you need. You just need to share it better.