I love harvest season in California’s wine country, we’re surrounded by gorgeous vineyards that produce some of America’s most popular wines.

While machines harvest most of the grapes that go into wine sold in grocery stores, winemakers often hand-pick the grapes that make the most exclusive—and yes, expensive—bottles.

Winemakers are looking for grapes that tell a story, but a very specific story. The best grapes have endured hardship: the vines grow on steep vineyards or rocky soil and have to fight and dig for water and nutrients.

The result is wine that bursts with flavor and is said to have ‘character.’

The same laws of nature that are at work in the vine story will help you stand out. Inspire your listeners with stories of triumph over tragedy and success over adversity.

Inspiring storytellers:

Overcome life’s challenges.
Share stories of events in your life (or business) that posed a serious challenge, one that could have derailed your success had you not taken action and changed course. These stories prove your courage defines your character.

Achieved something that most people said could not be done.
Nearly every entrepreneur or visionary faces naysayers who say “It can’t be done.” Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph faced so many skeptics, that he named his book, “That will never work” because that’s the common phrase he heard every time he pitched his idea. Anyone who dreams big faces small thinkers who will hold you back if you let them. Don’t let them. And share your story of triumph!

Turned setbacks into set ups for greater levels of success.
Character and leadership aren’t defined by what happens to you. Your character is shaped by what you do when things happen to you. Share stories of turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Your audience craves stories of victory over struggle—it’s nature’s way of building character.

Carmine Gallo
Bestselling author, keynote speaker, CEO Advisor, and Harvard Instructor
CarmineGallo.com