Storytelling for action
We don't just tell stories
We live in stories
Our stories change the world
Stories can start from noticing, something that bugs you
A mess in the park?
Too much packaging?
Stickers on your fruit?
That could be the start of your story
Quick warm-up exercise
Use 6 words to describe
"last time I was in nature..."
Here is an example:
Last time I was in nature…
Saw trash everywhere. Why? Sad. Help
We are all storytellers
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Let me tell you a story that made a big difference for a little bird and changed some people’s minds about single use plastic water bottles. It happened at a beach in Southern California on a quiet Sunday. People were walking by the shore when they heard a very loud screeching sound. The sound kept going and getting louder. It was a small bird with a plastic ring around his neck, his beak stuck open. He was helpless and scared
All he could do was squeak very loudly
People tried to help him. Eventually someone was able to hold him and cut the plastic ring. People were happy to see him saved and free to fly away. They were also upset to see how animals suffer when we litter and promised that they would not buy drinks in plastic bottles or litter the beach
Imagine if..
Write or draw stories inspired by cool illustrations
Fill-in-the-blank
Pick a topic, fill in the blanks and have fun seeing where the story leads you
Storytelling resources
Videos, tips and tools to learn storytelling
Big ideas workbook
Prompts and quotes to help you imagine new ideas—and write stories to help heal and protect Nature
​What stories have stayed with you and inspired you to make a difference?
FAQs: why does storytelling matter?
What is storytelling for action?
Storytelling for action uses stories to inspire people to move their ideas forward in an inspiring and effective way. Whether it’s protecting the ocean, supporting an idea, or rethinking the future, storytelling for action is a simple framework that helps people create positive change.
Why is storytelling important?
Storytelling connects facts to feelings. It makes ideas memorable and meaningful. Without stories, most information is just data. With stories, it becomes something we can care about and act on.
Why is storytelling important for Nature?
Stories help us understand and empathize with the challenges and successes in Nature in ways that information and facts alone can’t. A story can bring a coral reef to life, show the journey of a changemaker, or turn climate data into something personal.
Who can be a storyteller?
We are all storytellers by nature. We live and communicate through stories, but all of us can become better storytellers by learning some basic story principles. A good place to start is Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, which is the basis for many fiction and non-fiction stories.
What makes a story powerful?
Stories are powerful when they set up a challenge and invite us on a journey where a clear problem is at stake. We become invested in finding a solution. The best stories touch on a deeply held human need or value.
How can I tell a good story?
Start with something real: a moment, a problem, a hope. Then shape it using the three steps we use at 71.life:
What needs to change?
What challenge is in the way?
What action made a difference?
What is the ACT storytelling framework?
ACT is the storytelling framework for action.
A: Action. You notice something you want to change and make a plan.
C: Challenge. Change doesn’t come easy. You push through the journey.
T: Transformation. Success! Your plan worked, the world changed, you changed. Celebrate. Repeat.
How does 71.life help people tell stories?
We create storytelling guides, prompts and resources to help you create your own stories. Whether you’re writing about sea turtles, changemakers, or your own dreams for the future, we help you find your voice, create your stories, and share them.
