I used to think that writing a memoir was either for “extremely” traumatic stories or when you were at a “particular” age in your life…Am I the only one who thought this?
Well let me just tell you this way of thinking all changed when I was called to write my first memoir in 2020, Journey Written, and when my company started to transition to helping other women write theirs. In today’s blog post, I am going to discuss 5 common myths around memoirs that may be holding you back from writing your story.
- Myth: Memoirs are only for famous or extraordinary people.
Reality: Memoirs are not limited to famous or extraordinary individuals. Everyone has a unique story to tell, and memoirs can encompass a wide range of experiences and perspectives. Your memoir can be about your personal journey, struggles, successes, business, or lessons learned, regardless of whether you consider yourself famous or “ordinary."
- Myth: Memoirs should include every detail of your life.
Reality: While it may be tempting to include every single detail of your life in your memoir, it's important to focus on a specific story, period, or theme. Select the most significant events and experiences that support the central theme of your memoir. By narrowing down the scope, you can create a more focused and engaging narrative. This allows you to focus on one specific story of your life at a time, releasing the pressure that your entire life story has to fit into one book.
- Myth: Memoirs are purely factual and objective.
Reality: Memoirs are not meant to be a mere collection of facts and objective events. They are subjective accounts of personal experiences. It's important to embrace your unique perspective, emotions, and reflections in your memoir. Your feelings, thoughts, and insights add depth and authenticity to your storytelling, allowing readers to connect with your story on a deeper level.
- Myth: Memoirs require a perfect memory.
Reality: Many people worry that they must remember every detail accurately in order to write a memoir - this is why I encourage aspiring authors to have a journaling routine that documents their journey. However, it's important to remember that memory can be subjective and may fade over time. While accuracy is important, memoirs rely on your personal recollections and emotions. What matters most is capturing the emotional truth and essence of your experience. As long as you are transparent and clarify that certain details are based on your memory and perception, readers will appreciate the authenticity and depth of your memoir.
- Myth: Memoirs are only for older individuals.
Reality: Memoirs are not limited to older individuals or those who have lived through significant life events. Memoir writing can be done at any age or stage of life. Even as a young female founder, your unique experiences, challenges, and achievements can inspire others and make for a compelling memoir. Your journey as a founder, regardless of your age, can offer valuable insights and lessons that resonate with readers.
By dispelling these myths, you can approach your memoir writing journey with confidence and a clearer understanding of what it entails. Remember, your memoir is an opportunity to share your story and make a meaningful impact, regardless of any preconceived notions or misconceptions.
Personally, I know I have many more stories and testimonies inside of me that will be written and I know this to be true for you as well. So don’t hold yourself back from writing your story and memoir because of myths.
Remember, your story has the power to inspire, uplift, and make a lasting impact. The world is waiting to hear your voice, story, and testimony! 🌍💖
Your story is worth being told!
Ready to work with Journey Written? Visit www.JourneyWritten.com today so that we can discuss your book goals and project!
