Kia ora,
It’s great to beam into your world from my rainy one, this Wednesday.
Today I’d like to share five reasons with you, that now’s a great time to start recording your memoirs, life story or family history.
- For all the bad rap it gets, AI is actually making it easier and easier to write your life story. For those ‘two finger’ typers out there, did you know there’s now tech that enables you to record your story onto your phone, and then upload that audio file to be transcribed straight into a story? Yes indeed it really does exist and it’s been a game changer for me, as a memoir writer. I’m a fast typer and I even find it’s easier to read some old documents onto a voice recorder on my iphone, and then upload that audio file into an AI programme called Cockatoo on my laptop. Here’s an affiliate link to join. Thank me later!
- Your people are waiting for your story. I’ll never forget meeting the cousin of an amazing 80 year old lady, who was mid-way through writing her family history and life story. That cousin found out she was writing it, and came to me in tears saying, ‘she is the keeper of our family’s stories. I’m so glad she’s writing them down for us.’ Are you the keeper of your family’s stories? The older you become, the more likely you are. You never know how important your memories will be to your family one day.
- If you’re healthy, start now. It’s funny how your health starts to become more and more important. When I was younger I took it for granted. These days I see too many people putting off starting on their stories, until they get a health scare. Don’t wait for that day. If you want to write it, and you’re well and active, start now. They always take longer than you expect them to.
- All you need is one piece of paper and a pen. Jot down your top 20 ideas (what absolutely MUST be in your life story? Then think about how you’d order them as chapters. That’s the first draft of your chapter plan!
- Remember: there’s no one better qualified to write your story than you. I actually know someone who paid someone else to write her life story, as if they were her. And her publisher sent it back and said ‘Nope. We want your voice.’ I want your children and grandchildren to read your story and hear your voice too. This is one thing I guarantee you’re an expert in: the story of your life. So don’t let lack of confidence hold you back.
Ok, that’s my pep talk for the week!
And if you’d like step by step support to write it, including video tutorials teaching you how to use all this confusing technology (I’m just about to upload new videos with step by step instructions), regular online group sessions to give you accountability and feedback, plus a Mother’s Day discount, check out my course Write Your Memoir.
Charlotte x
With Mother’s Day coming up, some of you sent me five words about your mums. Ahh, the subject makes me emotional. I love my mum. Here are Lucy’s:
Caring, artistic, bookish, our champion, devoted.
Charlotte Squire 