Just Keep Writing Despite These 8 Things...

Okay. Cool. You've decided to write your true life story! 💃🏽💃🏽 However, there will be tough spots as you begin your journey to publication. These are things that can throw your writing off track and even cause you to procrastinate or become paralyzed by indecision.

Think about this for a moment...

Literally, every single one of my clients has survived trauma – as have we all. But I can confidently say there are levels to this ish.

Take my former client who was set up by his daughter, shot five times – and survived, or my client whose mom died from HIV that she contracted from his dad, or my former client who was shot and paralyzed at the age of 14 and went on to live an amazing life – despite his circumstances.

These are just a few of the true stories I've had the pleasure of helping bring to life.

However, the common denominator is that despite the tough spots, they all desired to tell their stories in a compelling way and not just have a huge gripe-fest/pity party.

These are eight tough spots that can throw your writing off track. Seriously.

They include:

1. Using real names: Choosing whether to use real names in your memoir can be a daunting decision. Don't let it be. Changing names does NOT take away from the authenticity of your story. Trust me, don't do it.

2. Emotions: Writing a memoir often stirs up a whirlwind of emotions, from nostalgia to pain. It's crucial to embrace these feelings when they surface, as they provide the depth and authenticity that make your story resonate with readers.

3. Fear of what people will think or say: Overcoming the fear of judgment from family, friends, or the public can be one of the most challenging aspects of memoir writing. Remember that your story is your truth, and you're sharing it to inspire, heal, or educate, not to please everyone. Boom! Yes, that part.

4. Shame and guilt: Confronting shame and guilt associated with past events can be both liberating and difficult. Acknowledging these feelings is a part of your healing process and the path to self-acceptance in your memoir. Don't let these two nasty emotions sidetrack your project. Choose to see them as liberating and not debilitating.

5. Setting the record straight: Writing your memoir gives you the opportunity to correct misconceptions or share your side of the story. It's essential to maintain a balanced perspective, presenting your truth without being overly biased or vindictive. This is not an opportunity to get revenge – there is no time for that. You will look petty and small.

6. Give yourself permission: Granting yourself permission to share your story authentically is the first step in writing a powerful memoir. Allow yourself to be vulnerable, honest, and unapologetic about your experiences.

7. Trying to remember details: Memories can be fickle, and trying to remember the fine details of events from the past can be challenging. Use memory prompts, journals, or conversations with people who were present to help reconstruct accurate scenes to the best of your ability.

8. Just a little piece: Remember that your memoir doesn't need to encompass your entire life; focus on the specific experiences that carry the most emotional weight or life lessons, even if it's just a small piece of the larger puzzle.

Writing a powerful memoir will change your life and the lives of others, but be sure you are prepared to tackle these tough spots before you share your authentic story so that the triumph is highlighted and not the tragedy.

For help getting your story out of your head and onto the page, contact HelpingWritersWrite.com and book your complimentary 30-minute call.