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Story Like You Mean It: How to Build and Use Your Personal Narrative to Illustrate Who You Really Are
Each of us has a story to share, a mixture of lived experiences--planned and unplanned--that come together and give our existence shape and identity. But in a world where we rely on screens and images for communication and self-expression, do we truly know how to tell our story?
Do you know how to tell yours?
In Story Like You Mean It , Dr. Dennis Rebelo helps you communicate with ease and connect with others by constructing a self-narrative with intention and purpose. At the intersection of academic theory and practical experience, Dr. Rebelo shares insights he has gained coaching clients on how to build and then share their life-work narratives. Students from the US Navy and CVS Health's Executive Learning Series for Diverse Suppliers, and even NFL alumni, have used Dr. Rebelo's Peak Storytelling model to navigate personal history, reflect on influential moments, and compellingly communicate their true value. What raw experiences made you who you are today? How do you express them meaningfully to showcase your worth? Dive into the intricacies of StoryPathing, become the master of your own narrative, and reap the benefits of sharing who you truly are.
Do you know how to tell yours?
In Story Like You Mean It , Dr. Dennis Rebelo helps you communicate with ease and connect with others by constructing a self-narrative with intention and purpose. At the intersection of academic theory and practical experience, Dr. Rebelo shares insights he has gained coaching clients on how to build and then share their life-work narratives. Students from the US Navy and CVS Health's Executive Learning Series for Diverse Suppliers, and even NFL alumni, have used Dr. Rebelo's Peak Storytelling model to navigate personal history, reflect on influential moments, and compellingly communicate their true value. What raw experiences made you who you are today? How do you express them meaningfully to showcase your worth? Dive into the intricacies of StoryPathing, become the master of your own narrative, and reap the benefits of sharing who you truly are.
- GenresNonfictionWriting
234 pages, Hardcover
Published February 16, 2021
86 people are currently reading
1007 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 16, 2021
I couldn't have enjoyed Story Like You Mean It more! As I was reading it I was thinking not just about developing my own story, but how beneficial this book and process will be for the team of leaders I oversee. I think the process of developing your personal narrative that Rebelo outlines is clear and incredibly easy to access and understand.
Even though while I was reading I was thinking mostly of how I could implement these tactics in my professional life and with my teams, there is also a lot to be said for the personal self-discovery that takes place when going through this process. At the end of each chapter, I found myself reflecting much more than I had anticipated, in a good way!
One of the unique things about this book is it can be used at any stage of personal and professional growth. I found myself wishing I had this book when I was selecting which college I was going to attend for undergrad and at the same time being thankful I was gaining new skills today as a leadership professional.
I will absolutely be using this method with my teams!
Even though while I was reading I was thinking mostly of how I could implement these tactics in my professional life and with my teams, there is also a lot to be said for the personal self-discovery that takes place when going through this process. At the end of each chapter, I found myself reflecting much more than I had anticipated, in a good way!
One of the unique things about this book is it can be used at any stage of personal and professional growth. I found myself wishing I had this book when I was selecting which college I was going to attend for undergrad and at the same time being thankful I was gaining new skills today as a leadership professional.
I will absolutely be using this method with my teams!
April 28, 2021
Story Like You Mean It lays out powerful tools that help you seize the moment and grab the listeners attention by using your authentic voice to share your truth. Dr. Dennis Rebelo is a seasoned educator that imparts the skill and practice of story pathing in this witty, fast paced book. This digital age gives us instant access to one another but we are losing opportunities to make meaningful connection. Story Like You Mean It teaches you how to do the “me work”, distill the key components of your lived experiences and craft a powerful and impactful answer to the important question in business, networking or a school setting and that is: “tell me about yourself”. People often say that they’re shy or they don’t like to speak in public but story pathing gives everyone the power and the confidence to construct a self-narrative and deliver it with impact and intention to an audience of 1 or 1,000. Thank you Dr. D for sharing this very important work and for crafting the book in such a beautiful and accessible way.
April 8, 2021
The process shared in this book is a game changer in many ways. How many times have each of us said after an interview, writing a paper, or answering what should be a simple question, “Tell me about yourself?” that we wish we had been clearer in our response? Dr D in this book has brought together yet another way to tap into his powerful narrative identity research and work to make a difference in this world, one person at a time. After completing his online StoryPathing course, twice, I was able to answer questions differently in addition to telling my authentic story. Now, using This process for my coaching clients I am seeing breakthroughs that had been difficult to achieve in the past. This book is a powerful tool in an individual’s self discovery process and as an additional tool for my clients. Thank you Dennis for your determination to make a difference in the lives of those you touch. Highly recommend anyone of any age to read this book and see where it leads you.
January 5, 2022
Sometimes we introduce ourselves to someone new based on our preconceived notions of what we think they want to hear so we can generate feedback we ourselves want to hear. This book challenges the core of who you are so you can tell the real story of you, as you. And the beauty of it all, it evolves as you continue to develop that you from all the experiences you have today and in the future. This book helps you derive the awareness that enables that story continue to unfold in the most meaningful of ways. A must read for those who truly want to develop a deeper relationship with the story of yourself, lead people from that place of truth, and embrace a deeper relevancy in your relationships.
April 3, 2021
I love this book. I finished it in a few days, and I am using the map to make sense of, and map all the stories of my life as a kind of reference guide. It was very helpful to have that overview because I am writing some stories for my new website. One happy reader here.
Thanks from Belgium
Thanks from Belgium
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April 2, 2021The most powerful tool we all possess is our unique lived experiences, our unique lived stories. In 'Story Like You Mean It,' Dr. Dennis Rebelo teaches us how to leverage these life experiences into cohesive, strategic, and compelling narratives that help us land the jobs and clients we want, build next-level relationships, and connect with each other on a deeper, more authentic level. Drawing upon interdisciplinary research and his deep experience teaching and consulting students of all ages, from classrooms to boardrooms, Dr. D. shares an easy-to-follow - but not to be mistaken for shallow - roadmap, his Peak Storytelling method, for digging deep, identifying and connecting the dots, and deploying our stories to create the lives and careers we are capable of. I've found this process both fascinating and essential, and promise you won't be disappointed by what it uncovers in you.
March 21, 2021
The power of story telling to engage, enchant, and educate is well validated. Dr. Rebelo indicates that awareness and authenticity are consequences of this activity when an individual posits himself or herself as the protagonist and develops his or her unique narrative. A decade and a half ago when I was the Executive Director of a young school, he introduced me and the members of my leadership team to the early formulation of the process presented in Story Like You Mean It. In its early form “StoryPathing” was novel and beneficial; now in its more mature formulation it is polished and powerful.
January 5, 2022
Story Like You Mean it is a powerful read. We all have a story to tell based on our life experiences. This book will challenge you to truly explore yourself and learn to tell your personal narrative based on those experiences. Dennis has written a thoughtful, well-researched book that is easy to read and tough to put down! The content applies to each and everyone of us and as such, the applications are endless. Teachers, parents, high school students preparing for the college essay-writing process, college counselors (the list goes on), I encourage you to get your hands on this phenomenal book. You won't regret it!
January 7, 2025
As a retired teacher not really in search of my next gig, I was initially hesitant to take the Story Pathing course with Dr. Dennis Rebelo. However, I have found the work to be personally invaluable and worth every penny!
My partner and I dove into the work and discovered that although the course was not designed for relationship building, it turned out to be just that. Walking through the coursework together allowed for and continues to be the foundation for incredibly deep and vulnerable conversations. We speak a new language and seek a common path forward.
Although I was initially hesitant to invest in this course, I now feel extremely grateful for this incredible opportunity for growth!
As a small personal example, I was at a dinner party the other night with a small group of retired women. One asked if I played pickleball. I replied that I do not. With all seriousness, she retorted, “Then what do you do?”
I wish I could re-play that moment with a chuckle and a solid answer. With five faces staring at me curious to hear “what I do”, I froze. I typically freeze in social situations and lament about it later. Instead, I went home and sat with the story pathing framework to develop a peak story. The next time I’m asked this question; I will be ready to take the floor.
Dr. Dennis Rebelo helped me construct a personal narrative I didn’t know existed. I’ve spent a lifetime believing I wasn’t a storyteller, and I didn’t have a story. But I do. I matter. And now I have a roadmap for creating a peak story that illustrates who I am and what I stand for, a pathway to connection and potential collaborative endeavors.
Thank you, Dr. D
My partner and I dove into the work and discovered that although the course was not designed for relationship building, it turned out to be just that. Walking through the coursework together allowed for and continues to be the foundation for incredibly deep and vulnerable conversations. We speak a new language and seek a common path forward.
Although I was initially hesitant to invest in this course, I now feel extremely grateful for this incredible opportunity for growth!
As a small personal example, I was at a dinner party the other night with a small group of retired women. One asked if I played pickleball. I replied that I do not. With all seriousness, she retorted, “Then what do you do?”
I wish I could re-play that moment with a chuckle and a solid answer. With five faces staring at me curious to hear “what I do”, I froze. I typically freeze in social situations and lament about it later. Instead, I went home and sat with the story pathing framework to develop a peak story. The next time I’m asked this question; I will be ready to take the floor.
Dr. Dennis Rebelo helped me construct a personal narrative I didn’t know existed. I’ve spent a lifetime believing I wasn’t a storyteller, and I didn’t have a story. But I do. I matter. And now I have a roadmap for creating a peak story that illustrates who I am and what I stand for, a pathway to connection and potential collaborative endeavors.
Thank you, Dr. D
August 16, 2023
"Story Like You Mean It" written by Dr. Dennis Rebelo, is a practical guidebook for anyone who wants to develop their storytelling skills. The book offers a comprehensive framework for crafting and delivering compelling stories that captivate and engage audiences by introducing the PeakStory method and the Foursquare.
What sets "Story Like You Mean It" apart from other storytelling guides is its focus on authenticity and vulnerability and gives the audience practical exercises to implement what has been taught in the book. Dr. Rebelo encourages readers to share their own personal experiences from 3 levels (hero, collaborative and virtuous) and emotions in their stories, and provides guidance on how to do so in a way that is both genuine and relatable.
Overall, "Story Like You Mean It" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to become a more effective storyteller. Whether you are a business leader, educator, or simply someone who wants to connect more deeply with others, this book provides practical tools and strategies for crafting and delivering compelling stories that inspire and engage.
What sets "Story Like You Mean It" apart from other storytelling guides is its focus on authenticity and vulnerability and gives the audience practical exercises to implement what has been taught in the book. Dr. Rebelo encourages readers to share their own personal experiences from 3 levels (hero, collaborative and virtuous) and emotions in their stories, and provides guidance on how to do so in a way that is both genuine and relatable.
Overall, "Story Like You Mean It" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to become a more effective storyteller. Whether you are a business leader, educator, or simply someone who wants to connect more deeply with others, this book provides practical tools and strategies for crafting and delivering compelling stories that inspire and engage.
January 11, 2022
The greatest story never told....is YOURS!!!
I knew that the "moments" and "events" in my life wove a story that has impacted me but never put it together to impact others. Especially in my role as Chief Operations Officer and Chief Culture Officer, there is nothing more powerful than identifying and connecting of "Blue Dots"--in the book) that would help connect relationships, business and give me a platform that is consistent with who I've been, who I am, and whom I'm becoming than learning how to "Story Like You Mean It". It's taken those "moments" and given me a fixed and laser of clarity and insight so regardless of setting, topic or crowd I can leverage those moments for greater impact and value to those I serve each every day through the businesses and Kingdom efforts around the world. Thank you Dr. D for this great work! I treasure it!
I knew that the "moments" and "events" in my life wove a story that has impacted me but never put it together to impact others. Especially in my role as Chief Operations Officer and Chief Culture Officer, there is nothing more powerful than identifying and connecting of "Blue Dots"--in the book) that would help connect relationships, business and give me a platform that is consistent with who I've been, who I am, and whom I'm becoming than learning how to "Story Like You Mean It". It's taken those "moments" and given me a fixed and laser of clarity and insight so regardless of setting, topic or crowd I can leverage those moments for greater impact and value to those I serve each every day through the businesses and Kingdom efforts around the world. Thank you Dr. D for this great work! I treasure it!
March 21, 2024
Transformative Experience for anyone working on communication and telling the story of themselves! I am the director of a program for high school students and we work on technical skills , the entrepreneurial journey and human skills- communication, empathy and awareness. Dr. Dennis Rebelo worked with the students to tell their story in a systematic way that organizes their experiences, what inspired them and future goals. He retold student’s stories with confidence, organization and pizazz and the students thought it was magical! They were beyond impressed and realized that their stories matter and can be told in a systematic and inspirational way! Self- improvement, especially communication, is a skill to be worked on throughout our lives and this book can help hone in on those very skills- especially when it come to talking about oneself. Thanks, Dr. D!!!
March 21, 2024
I was a recent college graduate in the midst of trying to answer the age old question of "what's next?!" Reading "Story Like You Mean It" allowed me to reflect on moments in my life in order to find work that was not only exciting, but also meaningful and in alignment with my strengths. My experience with Dr. Dennis Rebelo's work gave me a deeper sense of self, and understanding of the life I hoped to live.
I would recommend this fantastic book to anyone who is looking for more directionality in their educational, professional, or personal lives. If you lean fully into the opportunity to reflect from cover to cover, Dr. Dennis Rebelo's approach to storytelling will take you on a journey you won't forget!
I would recommend this fantastic book to anyone who is looking for more directionality in their educational, professional, or personal lives. If you lean fully into the opportunity to reflect from cover to cover, Dr. Dennis Rebelo's approach to storytelling will take you on a journey you won't forget!
January 7, 2022
Better understand your own story and share it more effectively with others
Dr. Dennis Rebelo's Story Like You Mean it guides the reader to better answer questions like, "Tell me about yourself!" Through reflection on key life experiences and Dr. D's proven StoryPathing method, readers learn to pull together strengths and stories into an authentic and compelling narrative. Appropriate for students, CEO's, people in transition, and anyone looking to tell their story better. Dr. D genuinely cares about people and his uplifting nature shines through. I have personally found this process very helpful in my work as a cancer survivor advocate. Highly recommended!
Dr. Dennis Rebelo's Story Like You Mean it guides the reader to better answer questions like, "Tell me about yourself!" Through reflection on key life experiences and Dr. D's proven StoryPathing method, readers learn to pull together strengths and stories into an authentic and compelling narrative. Appropriate for students, CEO's, people in transition, and anyone looking to tell their story better. Dr. D genuinely cares about people and his uplifting nature shines through. I have personally found this process very helpful in my work as a cancer survivor advocate. Highly recommended!
April 28, 2022
"Story Like You Mean" It is a great book, more like a tool to help you organize your ideas and tell your story.
I have learned about the blue dots and how to connect them (meaning my story).
This quote really summarizes the book, it was my favorite quote while reading the book:
"If knowing yourself and being yourself were as easy to do as to talk about, there wouldn't be nearly so many people walking around in borrowed postures, spouting secondhand ideas, trying desperately to fit in rather than to stand out."
If you have the time and you are interested about learning how to tell your story, you should read this book.
I have learned about the blue dots and how to connect them (meaning my story).
This quote really summarizes the book, it was my favorite quote while reading the book:
"If knowing yourself and being yourself were as easy to do as to talk about, there wouldn't be nearly so many people walking around in borrowed postures, spouting secondhand ideas, trying desperately to fit in rather than to stand out."
If you have the time and you are interested about learning how to tell your story, you should read this book.
January 5, 2022
An in depth exploration and guide to how the events and experiences of your life form your unique story. Doctor Rebello guides you step-by-step through the process of creating your Story with easy to understand explanations and and engaging exercises. Once you have discovered your Primary Story, Dr. Rebelo helps you craft stories for every conceivable need and event in your life. It will help everybody, from young adolescents to retirees, find their unique voice and begin to build their very best life.
March 21, 2024
Dr. Dennis Rebelo's 'Story Like You Mean It' isn't just a book; it's a transformative journey through the art of storytelling. With a perfect blend of passion and practicality, Rebelo explores the power of authenticity and vulnerability in crafting compelling narratives. Through engaging prose and practical exercises, he demonstrates how storytelling can bridge divides and inspire change. Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just starting out, this book is a must-read, deserving every bit of its five-star rating.
March 21, 2024
As a writer, producer, storyteller, and parent, this book changed the game for me. Dr. Dennis Rebelo has written an important and insightful book that has real world application for anyone seeking to become the master of their own narrative. The wisdom contained in these pages will help you connect with yourself, with others, and unlock your potential. Stop what you are doing and "Story Like You Mean It"
March 26, 2024
An Innovative Model for Creative Identity Storytelling
I had the great experience of having Dr D as the instructor for one of my MBA courses this semester. His Story Like Your Mean It book is a true reflection of his depth of understanding people, culture, and communication. The book provides a useful model to guide the reader to raise their self-awareness, and learn how to distill key characteristics into a powerful interesting story when interacting with others.
I had the great experience of having Dr D as the instructor for one of my MBA courses this semester. His Story Like Your Mean It book is a true reflection of his depth of understanding people, culture, and communication. The book provides a useful model to guide the reader to raise their self-awareness, and learn how to distill key characteristics into a powerful interesting story when interacting with others.
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January 6, 2022After spending 35 plus years in Sales Management, this book illustrates one of the common issues sales people struggle with which is establishing credibility in order to gain a prospects trust. I have seen multiple training programs and systems but this is revolutionary. I believe it is a must for all level of sales professionals.
August 29, 2021
Too much naval gazing for me. And I'm a person who likes to dwell on things. I was tempted to go back to it, but it's too much work. If you are at a career crossing and feel lost, this could possibly be helpful. It feels more like a very long brochure for consulting services.
January 5, 2022
I am in my junior year of college and found this book to be extremely helpful while prepping for internships as well as job opportunities! I highly recommend to anyone and especially to college students trying to prep for the future.
March 21, 2024
This book shifts the mind to describe who you are vs what you do. I offered this as an assignment to college students who saw the value and engaged in the work as they prepare for graduation. A must read for anyone seeking a way to communicate who you are.
March 21, 2024
Dr. Dennis reminds us to get "in character" in life and be in the role we are supposed to be in. To honor our callings and act up on them with purpose. Being the best version of ourselves - as it's never too late to start telling our narrative the way we want it to be.
March 21, 2024
Story Like You Mean It has come to me at a perfect time in my life when I need it most. Telling my story, especially at work, has become vital to living out the role I believe I was meant to be in. Thank you, Dr. D, for exposing me to this!
April 2, 2024
What i like most about this book is the practical application of the "Story Like You Mean It" Approach to life. After reading, i felt more empowered to tell my story in a way that aligned with the future i envisioned for myself. Awesome read!
April 2, 2024
This book takes you on journey into your past, in order to make data based decisions about your possible futures. By leveraging your significant life experiences and using the tools introduced, you can marry your lived experiences with your personality to live your best life!
April 8, 2021
Great read, I wish I had something like this when I was in my high school guidance counselor’s office...
September 7, 2021
This book would have been very useful to me as a college student when applying for schools.
January 5, 2022
This book was so helpful for me. As a college student this book was informative. It helped me with mindset, finding internships through public speaking skills and so much more. Strongly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews