TheLeaderInside.com

Something that I started a couple of years ago was to write “My Story”. I’m not sure if the motivation for doing so was a form of self-therapy, or whether it was just my desire to put something in writing for my children. That story has now evolved into a full-blown novel based on “My Story” and the first draft is about two-thirds finished. (I chose to convert it to a novel to keep the identities of the people involved hidden.)

I have the feeling that everyone, at one time or another, has felt the desire to express his or her story. Whether it is merely done to read privately, to share with family or friends, or to go the full route and see about having it published, I can attest to the fact that it is an emotionally satisfying way to gain perspective on your experiences while sharing your unique voice.

We’ve all experienced feelings and events in our lives that we are longing to write down. Giving in to that urge can give you an outlet for purging any frustration, anxiety, or long-dormant feelings. No one else has to read it. You may even want to write your story without reading it right away. Satisfying the need to tell your story is not predicated upon your writing ability. It does, however take effort to write down the truth in detail. Your memories, captured on paper as descriptive scenes, sights, sounds, and scents, may at first seem disconnected or incomplete. But rest assured that you possess the ability to shape your recollections into stories.

As you finish the writing each day, you may be surprised at what you have accomplished. Your story can encompass as much or as little of your life as you prefer. You may surprise yourself with new insights, or you may find yourself exploring your roots, your identity, and your future through your words. Allow your writing to guide you and write as truthfully as possible. Don’t worry about what others will think of your personal journey, your style of writing, or your words.

Research has shown that writing a personal narrative filled with feelings and perceptions can create long-term health benefits. As you write, remember to have compassion for yourself, particularly when writing about traumatic events. Your writing may help family members know you better, or they may understand themselves more through reading about your experiences.

The most important factor about expressing yourself in a permanent way is that you are giving yourself the lasting gift of allowing your voice to be heard.

~~~ DBL-R