Creatively Concise! Can you tell a story in just 6 words?

Like most people in my line of work, I spend a lot of time following the current buzz around discussing boards, blogs and organizational websites.

Recently I was following a discussion on the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) National Group Page on LINKEDIN, titled “Can You Tell a Story in Just 6 Words?” The discussion was being lead by Harrison Monarth a NY Times Best Selling Author.

Immediately, I thought, how can my clients benefit from having this skill? The clarity of your thoughts and the ability to communicate them in the most accurate and concise manner is critical in the American workplace.

MY CUDDLEY POOCH LIKES BELLY RUBS

Some people who read my 6 word story will immediately see the dog in their mind; they know what breed it is, its size, age and some will even know its name, because of a common meaning we share.

Even if you have never owned a dog, you understand the meaning through a movie you’ve seen, television show or another dog you’ve come across in your life.

I picked the story because you, the reader, would be able to assign a meaning and understand it quickly.

There is an important lesson to be learned from the 6 word story challenge.

When communicating, not only should you pick words that help you convey a clear understanding, but the words you choose, should be ones that we share in common and we can assign the same meaning.