Rediscover Storytelling: A Natural Way to Be Creative

There was a time when storytelling came naturally.

Around the dinner table.
In the car.
Telling our kids, “Remember when…?”

We didn’t overthink it—we just shared.

Somewhere along the way, though, many of us started believing that storytelling belonged to writers. Or bloggers. Or people who had something more “important” to say.

But here’s the truth: Storytelling is one of the simplest ways to be creative—and you don’t need any special skills to do it.

With Tell a Story Day on April 27, this is the perfect excuse to try something new… or rediscover something you’ve been doing all along.

Why Storytelling is a Creative Practice

When we think about creativity, we often picture crafts, painting, or big projects.

But storytelling? It’s creativity in its most natural form.

You’re taking a moment, a memory, or even a feeling—and giving it shape.
You’re choosing what to include, what to leave out, and how to share it.

And the best part? There’s no right or wrong way to tell a story.

A cozy workspace with an open notebook, a pen, and a steaming cup of coffee on a wooden table, with a stack of books in the background.

5 Easy Ways to Tell a Story (Without Overthinking It)

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not creative,” start here. These are simple, low-pressure ways to begin.

1. Write a short memory

Think of a moment that still makes you smile—or laugh.

A childhood memory
Something your kids said years ago
A holiday that didn’t go quite as planned

You don’t need a full page. One paragraph is enough.

2. Start a “story journal”

This doesn’t have to be daily journaling. Just a place to capture moments you don’t want to forget.

A conversation
A funny mishap
A small win

Over time, you’ll have a collection of your life—one story at a time.

3. Tell a story out loud

Storytelling doesn’t have to be written. Call a friend. Sit with your spouse. Talk to a grandchild.

Share a memory that starts with: “This reminds me of the time…”
Sometimes the most meaningful stories are the ones we speak.

4. Let a photo tell the story

Pull out an old photo (or scroll back in your camera roll). Ask yourself:

What was happening here?
What do I remember most?
What wasn’t captured in this picture?

Then write a few sentences—or share it with someone.

5. Revisit a moment with new perspective

Think of a season that was hard… or confusing… or even just unexpected. Now ask:

What do I see differently now?
What would I say about that moment today?

You might be surprised at how your story has changed over time.

Read my story about why unplanned moments often become the ones we treasure most.

As you look back and tell your stories, you may begin to notice something you didn’t see before—how even the ordinary moments were meaningful in ways you didn’t realize at the time.