Scientists start with an observation, formulate an hypothesis, gather data to validate the hypothesis, then get published. Is that the acceptance they desire? Is that the definition of their success? We need to ask what is the motivation. For the scientists, they are motivated to validate the data and get published. But in many cases that published finding is read by very few. Where is the impact?
Would there be greater impact on real change and improving lives if meaningful data were more widely understood? The mechanism that is missing is know by successful leaders, and it stems from a similar creativity, but is delivered in a very effective effective method known as storytelling.
Stories are the emotional connection to the data. They are examples of why the data matters, how data is personal and why you might care to know more or do something. Researcher Brene Brown is an example of a Researcher (Scientist) who has generated plenty of data, through her research. But her impact, where the data is now more widely making a difference is as a direct result of her ability to “tell the story” of the data. Brene has inspired others through creativity and connecting with millions through storytelling. Vulnerability, shame, fear, these are all areas of research in human behavior that we can now understand through the data and the stories that come from the data.
There is common ground between scientists and effective leaders. Their ability to tell stories that connect with others is one way they can both have a bigger impact in their respective fields.