The term "story" and "narrative" are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct concepts.
A story, like history, has a clear beginning, middle, and end. It's a series of events that have already occurred, and while there can be stories happening in the present, the essence of "storytelling" lies in sharing events with identifiable timelines.
Narrative, on the other hand, lacks a predetermined ending. It encompasses both the present and the future, with the future yet to unfold. Narratives are continually evolving and perpetuated, shaped by the stories we tell.
A narrative is a system of stories. Imagine a forest composed of many trees. Each story is a tree, a unit, playing its part to build the larger narrative that is the forest. When you're within the forest of narrative, you're surrounded by countless stories, each playing a unique role. Stepping outside, you gain perspective on the overarching narrative that encompasses them all, like viewing the entire forest from a distance.
Distinguishing between stories and narratives can help us use storytelling to achieve our objectives. Are you planting a tree or are you cultivating a forest?