There’s a sacred connection to campfire storytelling and it lies in pulling the veil back so that you share a piece of yourself by the crackling flames. You share your struggle, your fears, your hopes, your dreams. The connection is made in the stillness of your truth. And in doing that you find that truth is universal. Dreams are shared. Fears bubble under the surface, synchronized to the rhythm hearts, everywhere.
When you give voice to these aspects of yourself, by a campfire, you don’t just invite others to share the journey with you, you also learn how similar all journeys really are.
So as you write and blog and work and tinker and dream and grow your business day in and day out, don’t forget the power of the campfire. As you go along in your day to day, remember that the campfire of your business can’t burn very bright without you seated by the fire. Don’t be intimidated by the hundreds of people, gathered from all corners of the world, seated in a circle ready, willing and eager to hear the story of your business as it relates to you. It’s the personal connection that makes the connection. Infuse it in all you do.
It’s easy, you just need to…
Show up.
Show up on good days and on bad days, be honest and authentic. Don’t get too caught up in “crafting” the perfect story. Instead, spend your time crafting the real story, that’s the story the world needs to hear. This is the story that brings your products, and the promise within each of them, to life.
Bring treats.
S’mores anyone? Offer a little sweetness any way you can. Sometimes this is a smile. Sometimes it’s a treat. Your circle of customers love to be rewarded in little ways. It could be as simple as taking the time to send a written thank you note or as generous as a special discount for repeat customers. Whatever you plan to do, share wisely.
Listen, very, very carefully.
When you share your story, your customers share theirs. When you listen to their story you find the opening of where your stories connect. Somewhere in that opening is a way for you to improve your customers’ experience around your campfire. You just need to open to the process of receiving this information.
What is the real story of your brand, you know, the one where you actually share the love and passion that you invest in every waking, working minute? Are you telling that story right now? And if not, why not?
