Your Authentic Story

I grew up in a tight society in Japan and still remember the day I was at the speech contest. I was a 13-year-old girl. Girls were expected to write the speech, and boys were expected to deliver it. No spotlight for any girls, and it was “normal.” Kids were not allowed to question or make a request to authorities; you would be in trouble if you did. But my boy partner and I did try to go against the rule. He was a shy, quiet guy, and I was outgoing. So it made sense if I delivered the speech I wrote; we thought it was a good idea. 

As you probably guessed, we painfully learned the rule; my boy partner was forced to take the stage anyway. And I was punished even harsher. The teacher screamed at me, “Shame on you trying to take the spotlight!” Everyone laughed at my disgracefulness. I bit my lip. I clenched my skirt not to scream, “It’s not fair!” After all, it was my story. I wrote the story, yet I could not express it by myself. 

It was painful, so my teenage mind concluded as: “No one listens to my story. It matters who said it more than the message in the story. I’m a girl, so my story doesn’t have any value if I deliver it by myself.”

But it is far from the truth. Because each story shines a bright light on a dark journey–especially it’s told by the person who has experienced it. Each story matters. Authentic stories are powerful. 

Over the years, I learned that sharing personal life stories creates a beautiful tapestry that only I can weave and show authenticity. The same is true for each of you. 

Sharing your authentic story is powerful, so powerful that it can impact others in a big way. 

However, finding an authentic story takes some effort for many of us. We are so close to ourselves, so we often overlook the crucial moments in our lives where the precious messages are in them. It sure is worth the effort, and it’s much easier when you have a sounding board. Someone who can create a safe place and is curious about your story and message. As you tell your memories without worrying about how they were received, you will find doors for your hidden treasure. They can lead you to your authenticity, your intention, what you value in your life.

People come to us for storytelling, and that’s what we offer. Still, we’re often working on getting the clarity of who they truly are. As a result, they often find the strength they’ve overlooked for a long time. 

That can be the journey you want to share with the world. Somewhere out there, someone is craving for the story to get inspired and find their strength.

Each story matters. Authentic stories are powerful.

Do you struggle to find your authentic story? Tell me more about you and your story.