Simon Hall writes:
I'm going to start this blog with a dangerous question.
Take a look at me (and be kind here, please!)
Bearing in mind I'm a Course Leader at the University of Cambridge, run my own business, have written a few books, and was a BBC News Correspondent...
What do you assume about my past?
I'm thinking particularly about my schooling and childhood.
The reason I ask is that I both suffered and caused a surprise this week...
And that made me think about the importance of origin stories.
I was teaching public speaking to a group of postgraduates at the University, we got on well, and, when it came time for questions one asked:
- What school did you go to?
It was an unexpected question, as that was a very long time ago, and hardly seemed relevant to our subject.
But I know it's often of interest, to find out about people's past.
So I answered anyway, and there was obvious surprise from several of the group.
Which, in turn, took me aback.
I rarely parade my origin story, as, for me, where someone came from is usually irrelevant.
It's what they are now which is important.
But origin stories can have their moment, and used well are powerful.
There's only one occasion in my work when I talk about my background, and it's when I'm doing my little bit for the future.
I travel to state schools and talk to the young people, usually sixth formers, about raising aspirations and how to get on in the world.
The talk is called The Secrets of Success.
(You know how modest I am!)
Although, in my defence, I would say the title is deliberately chosen to try to maximise attendance, which it tends to do.
I take the group through the six most important secrets I've discovered for doing well in life.
I won't bore you with the details, but thinking, persistence, and hard work are all key features.
Then we get to the end, which is possibly my most important message, and where we reach the origin story. I say:
There's one more thing I'd like to share and it's this...
You probably think it's all very well for Hall to go on about success in life.
But I bet he had it easy. Look at him...
Cambridge University, a writer, the BBC...
I bet his Mum and Dad were a Lord and a Lady, he grew up in a mansion, went to posh old Eton College, and had it all easy...
Then I let the words settle, and ask:
Is that what you're thinking? Well, you'd be wrong. Very wrong.
My parents were newsagents. We didn't have much money.
I went to a state comprehensive school.
There are no high-powered connections to help me along in my family, no wealth and privilege.
All I've got in the world - my BBC career, my books, my company, Cambridge - I've worked hard for.
So remember:
- If I can do it, you can too.
And when I say that, there's always - and I mean ALWAYS - a hush, and lots of nodding and respectful young heads.
Origin stories. They're worth thinking about, and sometimes mentioning.
Because, when used well, they can be very powerful indeed.
By the way, if you're a teacher or parent who'd like me to give one of my hugely modest Secrets of Success talks at your school...
Please get in touch via the website.
I think they're amongst the most important things I do, and I'd always be happy to try to help.
