Science fiction novelist, Patrick Rothfuss, wrote “as names have power, words have power. Words can light fires in the minds of men. Words can wring tears from the hardest hearts. There are seven words that will make a person love you. There are ten words that will break a strong man’s will. But a word is nothing but a painting of a fire. A name is the fire itself.” In this sense, truly understanding a person’s name grants strength to a bond.
At Covve’s Connection Crew Masterclass, Beth Ridley, CEO and Founder of Ridley Consulting Group and acclaimed speaker, shared a unique and meaningful way to build relationships. Her session focused on an activity titled “Name Narratives,” designed to unlock the stories and personal identities tied to our names.
Her engaging exercise encourages participants to explore the origins, cultural significance, or family tales associated with their names, fostering a deeper sense of curiosity and connection among individuals.
It serves as a gateway to understanding and appreciating the richness of everyone’s background and personal history. By inviting participants to share the stories behind their names, the activity goes beyond surface-level interactions, allowing for a genuine exploration of individual uniqueness. Ridley emphasizes the importance of curiosity in these interactions, offering prompts that make delving into personal stories feel respectful and intriguing rather than intrusive.
Fostering Curiosity and Connection
The activity includes specific prompts to guide the conversation, such as:
- “I’m curious to know [insert follow-up question].” This approach frames questions in a way that is open and non-judgmental, encouraging a more comfortable and meaningful exchange.
- “Tell me more…” By asking for elaboration, participants demonstrate active listening and genuine interest, paving the way for deeper understanding.
- “Thanks for sharing.” Acknowledging the other person’s openness fosters a sense of appreciation and respect for their willingness to share.
Applying these prompts to your daily interactions with friends, colleagues, and family can help you deepen your bonds with them, as you actively show an interest in them and their identity. Remember, it is critical to reciprocate this information about yourself as well, as a sign of trust and clearly communicating your interest in your contact.
A Lesson in Curiosity and Courage
Beth Ridley’s “Name Narratives” activity underscores a powerful message: there is always more to discover about one another when we approach interactions with curiosity and courage. By asking thoughtful questions and listening intently, we can uncover the unique stories that make each of us who we are.
This exercise not only enhances our ability to build meaningful connections but also reminds us of the value in appreciating and celebrating individual differences. In the context of professional networking and personal growth, “Name Narratives” offers a refreshing perspective on how to foster authentic connections that resonate on a deeper level.
Written on 15 Mar 2024.
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