What if the key to a meaningful life—and even a longer one—was hidden in the power of storytelling? Writing in Scientific American, Ron Shachar, a professor of economics and business at Reichman University in Israel, explores the surprising ways in which strong storytelling skills shape our sense of purpose, influence our mindset, and even contribute to our well-being. His research suggests that those who excel at telling stories tend to think more deeply about their own experiences, find greater meaning in their lives, and may even enjoy health benefits as a result.

At the heart of the article is the idea that skilled storytellers naturally develop a “why mindset”—a way of thinking that prioritizes purpose over mere action. Through five studies involving around 800 participants, Shachar and his colleagues uncovered a relationship between a talent for storytelling and a talent for finding meaning in life. Their findings revealed that people who tell compelling stories are more likely to see patterns in their lives, identify what drives them, and maintain a clear sense of direction. This effect was especially strong among introverts, for whom storytelling provided a way to cultivate purpose similar to that of naturally outgoing people.

"Individuals who excel at storytelling must...develop two key skills," writes Shachar. "First, they need to connect the dots—the events over the course of the story—in a meaningful way to create a coherent narrative. Second, they must learn to see the world through the eyes of their characters, understanding the 'why' of what drives people. Applying these two skills to their own lives, skillful storytellers use the first to identify and pursue what gives their life meaning, while the second fosters a mindset that prioritizes the 'why' behind their actions over just the 'how.'"

Shachar also highlights an unexpected advantage of storytelling in an age of artificial intelligence. While AI can execute tasks with precision, it struggles with big-picture thinking—the very skill that storytelling strengthens in humans. Additionally, storytelling fosters social connections, which are known to improve both mental and physical health.

Ultimately, Shachar argues that storytelling workshops and training do more than just enhance communication skills—they help people define their purpose and sharpen their sense of direction in life. The research suggests that storytelling isn’t just an art form—it’s a tool for survival, well-being, and a richer, more meaningful life.