STICKY Storytelling (SUCCESS Framework)

What This Game Teaches

This exercise helps participants craft stories that are memorable, persuasive, and impactful by using a structured set of storytelling principles.

Group Size

Individuals or small groups

Time

15–30 minutes

Energy Level

Low to Medium

How to Play

1. Introduce the SUCCESS framework: 

   • Simple

   • Universality 

   • Concrete 

   • Credible 

   • Emotional 

   • Stakes 

   • Surprise

2. Ask participants to take a story they already tell (personal, professional, or presentation-based).

3. Have them evaluate or enhance the story using each element of the framework.

4. Participants share their revised stories.

   
   

Variations

Focus on just 2–3 elements for a shorter exercise

Use it specifically for business pitches or case studies

Turn it into a group feedback session using the framework

Why It Works

Great stories are not just entertaining—they are memorable and actionable.

The SUCCESS framework works because it aligns with how people remember and are influenced:

we remember simple ideas

we connect to universal experiences

we believe concrete and credible details

we are moved by emotion and stakes

and we pay attention to surprise

By intentionally designing stories with these elements, participants dramatically increase their impact.

Pro Tips

• Encourage participants not to force every element. Focus on strengthening what’s already there.

• Push for specificity when working on “Concrete” and “Credible”

• Remind them that “Stakes” answers the question: why does this matter?

Origins / References

-Adapted from “Made to Stick” by Chip and Dan Heath

-https://heathbrothers.com/download/mts-made-to-stick-model.pdf

Try This In Real Life

Before your next presentation or pitch, run your story through the SUCCESS framework to make it more memorable and persuasive.

Want help crafting stories that actually stick? Learn more about coaching and workshops at Your Story, Well Told.