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Coaching Innovation

Photo by Jay Paul
Photo by Jay Paul

Growing up, I had the privilege of having a grandfather, Henry Towns, who was a great storyteller. I would listen to him and his friends for hours as they shared stories about their lives. Often, I asked him to retell the stories over and over until I had them memorized. I've been fortunate to have conversations with many great storytellers through the years, including Dr. Maya Angelou, a poet and innovator who has inspired me and many other writers and leaders through her words. While many of her insights resonate with me, one of her quotes stands out as I reflect on the important relationship between storytelling and innovation:


"We need to remember that we are all created creative and can invent new scenarios as frequently as they are needed."


Dr. Angelou understood that storytelling is not just an art—it can serve as a tool for transformation. Storytelling has the power to shape our histories, reclaim narratives, and inspire innovation. As leaders, we can create new possibilities, shift perspectives, and inspire change when we are open to embracing storytelling.


Storytelling Bridges the Past and the Future

Innovation does not happen in isolation. It is built upon the wisdom of those who came before us. Dr. Angelou's poetry and prose are shaped by history, yet continuously challenge readers to dream of a future filled with hope and resilience. As leaders, we must be willing to use stories to connect the lessons of the past with the possibilities of the future.


Authenticity Fuels Innovation

The most compelling stories—and the most transformative innovations—come from a place of authenticity. Like my grandfather's stories, Dr. Maya's work was powerful because it was unapologetically true to her lived experiences. Innovative leaders must be willing to be authentic in embracing our truths, sharing them boldly, and creating spaces where others feel safe to do the same.


Stories Make Innovation Accessible

The best ideas are not limited to one industry, sector, or demographic— All of us have beautiful and unique stories and these stories come alive through storytelling. A great story can translate complex challenges into relatable experiences. Stories invite engagement, encourage collaboration, and spark new ways of thinking that lead to much needed groundbreaking solutions.


Reflections on Storytelling  


  • How am I using storytelling to inspire, connect, and drive innovation in my organization?

  • What narratives am I embracing or challenging to create new possibilities for my team and community?

  • How can I create spaces where others feel empowered to share their stories and ideas for innovation?


Exercises to Encourage Storytelling


  1. Innovation Through Storytelling Circles - Organize a session where team members share stories of past challenges and how they overcame them. Identify themes and lessons that can be applied to future innovations.

  2. Creating A Timeline of Success - Choose a successful initiative and have your team reconstruct its journey as a story. Highlight pivotal moments, decisions, and unexpected insights. This exercise can reveal lessons learned and patterns of innovation that can be replicated in the future.

  3. The Future Narrative Exercise- Ask leaders and team members to write a short story about their organization five years from now. What problems have they solved? What new solutions have they pioneered? Discuss how to take steps toward making that vision a reality.


The legacy of storytelling is another reminder that innovation is not just about technology or new products—it is about reimagining what is possible, and it can start with storytelling.


How are you using the power of stories to create, connect, and innovate a better future?

 

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