Researchers find storytelling could be key to meaningful life

A study reveals a direct link between storytelling ability and a sense of meaning and quality of life. The study, conducted in Israel and the United States, found that people who are good storytellers enjoy more fulfilling lives, a clearer sense of purpose, and the ability to see the “big picture.”

The researchers evaluated the participants’ storytelling ability using self-assessment, peer feedback, ratings from strangers who listened to the stories, and analyses of recordings of stories by students trained in storytelling. Simultaneously, data was gathered on participants’ overall quality of life and their tendency to focus on details versus seeing broader perspectives.

The research is published in The Journal of Positive Psychology.

We all know that one woman who, the moment she begins to speak, has us completely captivated. She could be recounting something as ordinary as dropping her child off at kindergarten, yet her storytelling draws us in effortlessly. On the other hand, there are those who can tell us about a dramatic life event, yet struggle to hold our attention.

Now, this new research reveals that those who excel at storytelling also tend to lead better lives. They feel a profound sense of meaning, possess a clear and lucid understanding of their life’s direction, and are better able to see the bigger picture.

The study’s findings showed a clear connection between storytelling ability and high levels of quality of life and sense of meaning. Even after accounting for other factors, such as the five major personality traits, the effect was found to be particularly pronounced among introverted people, who found storytelling to be a powerful means of self-expression and skill enhancement. These results suggest that storytelling is not only a personal asset but also a valuable tool in professional and organizational contexts.

The study has significant implications for managers and organizations. In the modern workplace, where employee engagement, motivation, and well-being are critical to success, nurturing storytelling skills among employees can contribute to team building, effective communication, and a culture of purpose and collaboration. Improving storytelling skills can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.

What’s more, storytelling has been found to provide a distinct advantage for introverts, enabling them to better integrate and express their unique strengths. By implementing storytelling workshops and training programs, organizations can amplify the voices of diverse team members, encourage innovation, and promote a stronger sense of belonging and inclusion.

In an era where artificial intelligence plays an increasingly prominent role, unique human skills like storytelling are becoming more vital than ever. The ability to tell a story is closely tied to seeing the bigger picture and thinking strategically—skills that are essential for employees and leaders in a rapidly evolving workplace. Storytelling workshops can provide employees with tools to take initiative and develop a long-term vision, while cultivating a deeper sense of purpose in their work.

Prof. Ron Shachar, from the Arison School of Business at Reichman University, says, “The research findings highlight that storytelling is not only a tool for personal improvement but also a key to organizational success. The ability to tell a story effectively and compellingly allows people to enjoy a more fulfilling life and helps organizations foster a cohesive, innovative, and inclusive culture, which contributes to their long-term success.”

The research team included Professors Mario Mikulincer and Shachar of Reichman University, along with doctoral student Haran Einam.