. PRACTICE Crafting Your Leadership Story On This exercise is adapted from Leading Out Loud by Pearce (2003). It is designed to give you an opportunity to begin or revisit work on your portions Take 1 hour in a quiet place where you can do some reflection in solitude. Wilte a draft of your leadership story. Consider the "" Chapter 1: The Early Years. Recall your formative years. How did your early personal experiences and family circumstances shape who you are today? What early messages, lessons, or values were inculcated during this life phase? . Chapter 2: Angels and Heroes. Describe two people who have made a difference in your life-onc from your personal life and one from your work life. What "leadership lessons" did you acquire from each person? . Chapter 3: Leadership Courage. Think of a time in your life when your values were significantly challenged. How did you resolve or work through this situation? . Chapter 4: Your Legacy. Everyone says it differently, but what do you think is the true joy of life"? What personal values or wisdom would you want to pass on to those you care most deeply about? Your instructor may construct discussion groups within which you can share your draft stories Bolestone Everyone has a story. Strong leaders use their stories to inspire and engage others. Leaders recognize the defining moments in their lives and communicate those lessons in words and actions. Everyone's life is filled with experiences--traumatic, frustrat ing, or exhilarating--that can be the source of valuable learning. Stories create real human connections by allowing others to get inside our minds and our lives. With their human protagonists, dramas, and climaxes, they engage listeners on an emo- tional and intuitive level that is rarely touched by purely rational argument. Presenting your leadership story to others takes courage, but inevitably, someone will want to hear about who you are and the story behind what is important to you. Opportunities to share your story will surface frequently. It may be during a job interview; it may come from a counselor or family member during a conversation about your career and future; or it may be part of an carly conversation you have with someone with whom you are establishing a new relationship. Be prepared to take advantage of such opportunities