This article will provide you with practical tips to stay motivated as you traverse the winding paths of your past.
1. Set Aside Specific Time Each Day
Consistency is Key: Like any writing project, consistency breeds success. Dedicate a fixed time each day to write about your life memories, even if it’s just for 10 minutes.
Morning Reflections: Some people find their thoughts freshest in the mornings. If you’re a morning person, try starting your day by jotting down memories over a cup of coffee.
2. Dive Into Old Photo Albums
Visual Triggers: Photographs are powerful triggers for memories. Looking at old photos can instantly transport you to a different time and evoke a plethora of emotions.
Organize Thematically: Categorize your photos into themes like family vacations, school days, or special occasions. This will provide you with a structure as you write and help avoid feeling overwhelmed.
3. Reach Out to Old Friends
Shared Memories: Memories become even more vivid when they’re shared. Talking to an old friend can remind you of forgotten experiences or offer a different perspective on shared events.
Reconnect Digitally: With social media platforms and messaging apps, reconnecting has never been easier. Even a simple “Remember when…” can spark an hour-long conversation filled with nostalgia.
4. Create a Dedicated Writing Space
A Personal Sanctuary: Having a dedicated space to write your memories helps mentally prepare you for the task at hand. It signals to your brain that it’s ‘memory-writing time’.
Comfort is Essential: Make sure your writing space is comfortable. This could be a cozy corner with a soft chair and a lamp, or a desk overlooking the garden.
5. Use Prompts to Guide You
As well as Gift Your Story’s library of question prompts, you might want to directly ask your family members what stories they would like to hear.
Others often remember anecdotes that we don’t and moments that you might not have considered important, could be very meaningful to them.
6. Break It Down into Small Tasks
Avoid Overwhelm: Writing your life memories can feel like a mammoth task. Break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks or chapters to make it less daunting.
Celebrate Small Wins: Completed writing about your high school years? Celebrate it! Every little bit counts.
7. Reflect on Your Progress Regularly
Track Your Writing: Consider keeping a progress chart or journal. Every time you complete a section, mark it. Visually seeing your progress can be immensely motivating.
Gift Your Story allows to mark your stories as complete or ongoing. Being able to physically see which stories you’ve completed can give a real sense of accomplishment.
8. Share Your Stories with Others
You don’t have to wait to print your book to share your stories! It can be fun to share a particular story with family members before all the questions are completed. This may help them think of new questions to ask you, and it gives you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep on writing!