Here’s a great idea—even if I do say so myself: Create a treasure box filled with memories that will help you write your stories. Gather photographs, letters, journals, recipes, scrapbooks, obituaries, jewelry, pressed flowers, the family Bible, the list goes on. Treasures that define your life all have a story to tell.  

Think of this as a scavenger hunt. Have fun collecting what might seem to be random odds and ends. Don’t become overwhelmed thinking you must gather everything at once. Locate what you can get your hands on easily. Add new items as they turn up.

Now set up a permanent place for your treasures—a place where you won’t have to pack up after each work session—a place where you can simply pick up where you left off. If permanent digs aren’t available, store your treasures in a portable plastic bin.

Next open your calendar and schedule specific days and times to work on your memoirs. Honor your dates, just as you do every other commitment.

Now turn to your treasures. They are memory joggers. Pick one. Say a picture of you riding your first bike. What color was it? Did it have a basket? Did a have a bell? Did it have streamers? Did it have training wheels?  How much did it cost? After you describe your bike, ask yourself, “What did my first bike represent?” or “What adventures did I have on my bike.” 

Start to type. One word at a time, your story will practically write itself. During your next session, select another treasure. Start to type. One word at a time, your story will practically write itself.

Guaranteed.