How To Bring Your Story To Life
Thinking about writing your own memoir? Fab idea, I say! There's something special about preserving memories on paper (slash in your iCloud/Dropbox…), and memoir writing is a fun and fulfilling way to share your experiences with others.
It can also be a beautiful healing journey for the author (I’ve heard it said that writing “isn’t therapy but it is therapeutic”, and if that isn’t the dang truth…! The number of people who’ve had major personal breakthroughs when I’ve sat down with them to help write their memoirs…).
So, keen to pen your own piece of history? Here are some tips to help you get started with your memoir writing journey:
Start with a clear purpose. What do you hope to accomplish with your memoir? Are you looking to inspire others, share your story with your family, or simply document your memories for posterity? Having a clear ‘why’ in mind will help you stay on track as you write.
Choose a theme or memorable event. Whether it's a significant life event or a series of small moments that have shaped who you are, start by choosing the key moment or moments you want to write about. This can help you structure your memoir and give it a clear narrative arc.
Write in your own voice. Your memoir is your story, told in your words – so don’t try to use someone else’s writing style or be someone you're not. Write in a way that feels natural and true to who you are.
Use sensory details. Ooft, this is an important one! When you describe your experiences in your memoir, try to include as many sensory details as possible. What does that mean? Don’t just describe what you see or what’s happening. Include sights, sounds, tastes, smells and textures to help bring your story to life for your readers. Fall in love with the ‘show don’t tell’ rule!
Get personal. Be authentic. Memoirs are all about telling your own story, so don't be afraid to get deeply personal. Share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that is authentic to you. This will make your memoir a unique and memorable read.
“In a memoir, your main contract with the reader is to tell the truth, no matter how bizarre.”
Writing a memoir can be a rewarding and cathartic experience, and is a great way to preserve memories for future generations. Don’t be afraid to dive on in and start writing your own story today.
Not sure how to get started? Check out my writing tips for beginners or join us in The Writing Room. Or for a little 1:1 word love, you know where to find me! (Oh wait, you don’t? Here, here and here should do it!) 💜 ✨ 📝