The power of your story – and five ways to tell it

A love of everyday stories is the reason I became a journalist over 25 years ago, and it has served me well throughout my career. I spent a huge part of my working life liaising with celebrities on world exclusive interviews hooked to personal moments in their lives in my roles on British magazines including Glamour, Grazia and HELLO! Then I went on to write novels, creating fully-fledged fictional characters and scenarios in my mind, crafting a storyline so that it is satisfying for the reader and a joy to write. I live for moments of being in 'flow' when a story cascades from my mind onto the page with ease, like a waterfall of wonderful words. And I panic I will never be able to write again on the days when the right words are hard to find – something which happens to us all. Oh how I LOVE a good story. These days, I am focused on helping midlife women reclaim their story – to consider it, shape it, nurture it and grow it, ready for their brilliant next chapter to begin. Yet I couldn't do this, if I wasn't honest about my own.

I loved my time editing HELLO! when a good story was the key to selling magazines

Why stories matter

In challenging times, stories can provide a sense of comfort and hope; stories of other women's struggles and ways forward, help show us that we might find a route through difficult times too. Stories help us to feel seen and heard and can lift our spirits. Stories provide connection.

When I began to reinvent my career going from Editor in Chief of HELLO! magazine, where I had worked for 16 years, to life coach and founder of Rosie's Reinvention Retreats, I realised the most powerful marketing tool I had at my disposal was my own story. Although it took a while to feel confident enough to open up about my own struggle with navigating midlife and coming close to burnout, when I did, the response told me that I was on exactly the right path. Sharing your story is a reminder that your voice matters – not just for you, but for all the women who will come after you.

Writing about my story in national newspapers felt nerve wracking at first, but owning my story has paved the way to the purposeful career I was keen to create

The art of brilliant storytelling

I have had access to some of the biggest celebrities in the world - I’ve seen first-hand how they have built their personal brands using their stories. I've seen those that have succeeded in winning hearts and those who have lacked authenticity and seen their popularity wane. I have learned the power of great storytelling, and I am using all of this experience to support the guests on my retreats with harnessing their story for second-act success.

Brilliant storytelling is about cutting through the noise & building connection. But how do you do this?

We will be digging into this subject in detail on my next Reinvention Retreat day, which you can book here

Meanwhile, here are 5 things I have learnt about telling your story:

1. Understand your purpose – what is the problem you are trying to solve?

2. Be honest, any audience can tell straight away if they are being manipulated – and that includes images.

3. A newsworthy hook and a strong opening line is everything. Draw them in from the beginning.

4. Find your niche – when somethings sticks, keep with it.

5. Relax! There's no need to swallow a thesaurus, imagine you're speaking to a friend.

British jewellery brand Lily Charmed will be joining us on 14th March to help inspire your story, plus each guest will receive a beautiful charm of your choice.

Come and join us on 14th March!

If this has sparked your interest, I'd love for you to join us at this special retreat day on Friday 14th March at Corinthia London. I have teamed up with the British jewellery brand Lily Charmed as a one-off for this special retreat day, where each attendee will be gifted a gold or silver charm of your choice (worth £50) and we will use these beautiful symbols inspire as you craft your story. With 150 stunning symbols to choose from, I guarantee there is one you will feel drawn to. They even have a custard cream charm - that's me, sorted!

Confidence coach Rosie Dalling will help you dig into your 'why', unlocking the passion behind your story and help you gain the confidence to tell it in an engaging way. We will then have a fun session with Instagram trainer Kirsty Raper from Rebuildagram who knows ALL the tricks for gaining visibility online – without any ridiculous dance routines, I promise!

BOOK NOW!

Rosie's Reinvention Retreats take a holistic approach - we understand that any new chapter can feel like a daunting prospect, so your wellbeing and mindset are key. We cover all aspects of the midlife experience on our retreat days. Expect laughter, connection and support.

Our retreat days are a great place to come to find support

Whether you are embarking on a career change, have the beginnings of an idea for a business, or perhaps you have years of experience and are a founder with a strong passion for your work, but you lack the confidence to put it out there, your personal brand is the key to your success. Or maybe you just need to feel inspired again - this retreat day is a great introduction to what we do. There are a few places left on this special day, so why not take the plunge and take the first step towards your next chapter. You can do this!

Secure your place now!

After a full morning of workshops, the retreat day will conclude with a delicious and healthy lunch and networking opportunity in the luxury surrounds of Corinthia London. Nibbles, tea and coffee will be served throughout the day and each attendee will receive plenty of goodies to take home. The day will run from 9am to 3pm, and the cost for this retreat day is £294.70. Please secure your spot to avoid disappointment. We like our retreats to be small and friendly. There is no better investment than in your personal development.

BOOK NOW!