Tips for Sharing Your Story!

NOT SURE HOW TO GET STARTED?

We’re here to help! First off, if you’re thinking about writing your life story, don’t wait. Our memories become less distinct towards the end of our lives.

Writing not your thing? You can still save and share your life story! We can show you how or help you complete this goal.

We all have stories that are valuable to others. And scientific evidence shows that sharing our life stories, whether written, orally or in video, is good for us and for those we share them with. We’d love to help you in any part of the writing and publishing process. But if you want to do it yourself, we encourage you! We believe everyone should share their story.

So, here are some awesome, proven DIY tips to help you!

After doing one of these GETTING STARTED activities, we’ve got more tips and next steps on our blog. Please subscribe!

STEP #1: GETTING STARTED

LISTS, PHOTOS, and PROMPTS, Oh my!

Having trouble getting started? You’re not alone. But you’ve got this!

Try one of these methods to start creating your own Story to Last! The idea is to break down your LIFE STORY into very short stories and moments, or even a list to get started, making the task of writing your book more achievable, one small step at a time. Choose the method that speaks to you! Just as you lived your life, there’s no one path to take, but many routes.

And remember we’re here to help if you get stuck!

 

GETTING STARTED #1: LISTS & PHASES OF LIFE

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Anyone can create a list! But, just as we each organize our closets and dishwashers the way we like them, the organization of your memories is unique to you. We have found that most people outline their lives by one of these categories:

  • Phases of life (early childhood, late childhood, teen years, etc.)

  • Places lived or visited

  • Activities (work, hobbies, interests, travels)

  • Relationships

Set a timer for ten minutes and make that list! Add to it whenever you think of something more. And you will!

Pick one item on your list, set a timer for ten minutes again, and write whatever comes to mind about it. Allow yourself the freedom to write anything!

GETTING STARTED #2: PHOTOS

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Get out an old album, a box of photos, or look at a picture in your digital collection. Choose the first photo that speaks to you or reminds you of a story. It doesn’t have to be a life-changing event. Set a timer for ten minutes, and describe what is happening in the picture, whatever comes to mind. There is no wrong answer!

Learn how Stories to Last can help you finish a book, video or podcast that you are proud of!

GETTING STARTED #3: PROMPTS

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Choose one of our Stories to Last Prompts, set a timer for ten minutes, and write. Don’t worry about grammar! A messy first draft, words on the page, that’s the only goal for now!