How Self-Narratives Generate and Shape Our Cultures
What is the culture of your family like? How do you influence the culture at your workplace? How does your ethnic background shape your daily life? We often hear the word 'culture,' but what does it really mean?
Culture is often described as a shared set of beliefs, values, meaning, information and practices within a group. But at its core, culture is also a collection of shared narratives—stories that give meaning to our experiences and connect us with others. These stories are not just passed down through generations; they are also constantly being reshaped by the self-narratives of individuals.
“Self-narratives are not just personal—they are cultural building blocks.”
My research has shown that culture and self-narratives are deeply intertwined (Lae, 2019). The stories we tell about ourselves are influenced by the cultural narratives we grow up with, but they also contribute to shaping those very cultures. For example, in cultures like that of European-Australians, where values such as independence and self-reliance are prominent, individuals often craft self-narratives that emphasise autonomy and personal achievements. These individual stories, in turn, reinforce the cultural narrative—a dynamic I termed the ‘self-enhancement’ pathway.
Conversely, in cultures like the Singaporean-Chinese, which prioritise community and interconnectedness, self-narratives often highlight relationships, family ties, and collective success. I refer to these narratives as the ‘family enhancement’ pathway. In this way, self-narratives help perpetuate cultural norms and values, but they can also challenge and transform them. Just as there are many different cultures, there are diverse and varied self-narratives that perpetuate the various cultures in our world.
When individuals tell stories that deviate from the dominant cultural narrative, they can spark change, leading to shifts in cultural norms over time.
Understanding the power of self-narratives in shaping culture is crucial for anyone interested in social change. By crafting and sharing narratives that align with the cultural shifts we want to see, we can contribute to building a culture that reflects our values and aspirations.
Tips for Generating Your Self-Narrative to Influence Culture for Good
Align Your Narrative with Your Core Values
Reflect on your core values and ensure your self-narrative is aligned with them, which was covered in a previous article, Discovering Your Core Values.
When your narrative is rooted in values like integrity, compassion, or justice, it naturally promotes a culture that upholds these principles. For example, if equality is a core value, you might craft a narrative that emphasises your commitment to inclusivity in both your personal and professional life.
2. Share Your Story Authentically
Authenticity is key when using your self-narrative to influence culture. People are drawn to stories that are genuine and resonate with their own experiences. Don’t be afraid to share your challenges, failures, and lessons learned, as these aspects of your narrative can inspire others to embrace vulnerability and growth. This is why Brené Brown’s research on vulnerability has resonated with so many—it highlights the power of being open and authentic. Authentic stories create connections and foster a culture of openness and trust.
For instance, I took the plunge to share my struggles with my mum’s cancer diagnosis last year and how it affected my writing (read the article here). I was deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time when death loomed close to a dearly loved one. It was through this support that I found the strength to keep moving forward, even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
3. Model the Change You Wish to See
Use your self-narrative to model the cultural changes you want to see in the world. For instance, if you wish to promote a culture of empathy, begin by weaving acts of empathy into your daily life and making these moments a central part of your narrative. This might include sharing stories of how you’ve supported a colleague going through a tough time or how you’ve taken the time to listen and understand someone’s perspective, even when it differs from your own.
By consistently living out your narrative, you become a role model for others, encouraging them to adopt similar behaviours and attitudes. Research shows that role modelling is a key process in leading cultural change (Kark & Van Dijk, 2007; Shamir et al., 1993).
4. Amplify Voices that Align with Your Narrative
Support and amplify the voices of others whose self-narratives align with the cultural changes you want to promote. Whether through social media, community engagement, or professional networks, sharing and celebrating stories that reflect your values can create a ripple effect, strengthening the cultural narrative you wish to see.
I’ll be honest—posting articles, especially on social media, and putting myself out there isn’t something that comes naturally to me. However, I’ve come to realise that to effect meaningful cultural change and engage with society, it’s essential to use our voices and share our messages. Finding like-minded individuals and organisations with similar values is crucial in driving cultural change for the better.
5. Challenge Cultural Norms with Courage
If your self-narrative involves challenging existing cultural norms, approach it with courage and conviction. Whether you’re advocating for social justice, environmental sustainability, or ethical leadership, your narrative can become a powerful catalyst for cultural change.
Share your vision and the reasons behind it, and invite others to join you in creating a more just and equitable society. Personally, I’ve come to realise that life is short. With this one life, I choose to live courageously, helping individuals and organisations make positive changes that have a lasting impact.
Conclusion
Our self-narratives are not just personal—they are cultural building blocks. By consciously crafting and sharing your narrative, you have the power to influence the culture around you for the better. This belief is at the heart of my vision and mission: to empower others to harness the power of their self-narratives to make meaningful and positive contributions to our cultures. When you align your story with your values, share it authentically, and model the changes you wish to see, you not only shape your own life but also contribute to a cultural shift that reflects the best of what we can be as a society.
Stay tuned for the third article in our four-part series on the Power of Self-Narratives, titled ‘Using Self-Narratives Effectively in Life and Work.’ These articles are designed to help you understand and craft self-narratives that dynamically shape both your personal development and the culture around you.
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About the Author
Lidia Lae, Ph.D., is a writer, psychologist, and speaker, committed to empowering individuals and organisations to build healthier cultures for meaningful contribution.
Reference:
Kark, R., & Van Dijk, D. (2007). Motivation to lead, motivation to follow: The role of the self-regulatory focus in leadership processes. Academy of Management Review, 32(2), 500-528.
Lae, L. L. (2019). Culture, self-narratives and autobiographical memory: Using a semiotic narrative approach to investigate cross-cultural differences (Doctoral dissertation, University of Melbourne)
Shamir, B., House, R. J., & Arthur, M. B. (1993). The motivational effects of charismatic leadership: A self concept based theory. Organisation Science, 4: 577–593.