Starting a Memoir? Just Ask the Right Questions
Nan Barnes
Are you starting to generate ideas for your memoir or family history? You probably have some “classic” stories that you’ve told and retold to family and friends for years. But you are probably also trying to recall other stories that belong in your book. Brainstorming is a good way to trigger your memory. I have found that a trigger question is a good way to get that brainstorm going. Try these out:
• What was the best birthday celebration you ever had?
• What’s the most important thing you ever learned?
• Did your career path ever take any unexpected turns?
These questions come from Kristen Kuhns’ article “Writing Your Memoirs: Inspirational Questions.” If you like these, she’s got 287 more. Check them out here.
If you have never used questions to prompt your thinking, I encourage you to try it. One question can sometimes help you recall memories you haven’t visited in years.
• What was the best birthday celebration you ever had?
• What’s the most important thing you ever learned?
• Did your career path ever take any unexpected turns?
These questions come from Kristen Kuhns’ article “Writing Your Memoirs: Inspirational Questions.” If you like these, she’s got 287 more. Check them out here.
If you have never used questions to prompt your thinking, I encourage you to try it. One question can sometimes help you recall memories you haven’t visited in years.