Before You Write Your Life Story, Try This One Simple Thing

So here’s something funny. I’ve been a writer for five years now. I’ve worked with different companies, written books for clients, blogs, even content that’s been published under other people’s names. I’ve helped others tell their stories with ease. But when I sat down to write a book about myself? I froze. Like… where do I even begin?

You’d think it would be easy, right? I mean, it’s your own story—you’ve lived it! But that’s exactly what makes it weird. You’re so close to it that everything either feels too big to describe or too small to mention. I kept asking myself, “Is this interesting enough? Does anyone even care about this part?”

So, have you ever faced something like that? Because I didn’t do any of the usual things people recommend—like journaling, outlining, or writing letters to my past self. I didn’t even start with a timeline. Honestly, all of that felt overwhelming. But I knew I needed to do something. The answer, I realized, was simple: get out of your own head.

Ask the people around you. Seriously. Sit down with your parents and ask them what you were like as a child. Ask your siblings or cousins what they remember about you growing up. Ask your closest friend what stands out to them when they think about you. It might feel weird at first, but you’ll be surprised by what they say.

My parents brought up stuff I had completely forgotten—like how I used to talk to myself in the mirror, pretending to be on TV. Or how I once stood up for a friend in school and they still remember it like it was yesterday. To me, those moments felt small or blurry, but to them, they were defining.

That’s the magic. Other people remember the version of you that you might’ve lost in your head. They’ve seen your growth from the outside, and sometimes that perspective is exactly what you need.

If you’re writing about yourself, here’s another little tip—don’t obsess over big achievements. You don’t need a list of awards or fancy job titles to tell your story. Talk about the stuff that made you feel proud. Maybe you learned to say no when you used to be a people-pleaser. Maybe you stuck through a hard time. Those are your wins too.

And when it comes to your goals—be careful. You can mention a few dreams, sure, but don’t go into too much detail. Why? Because goals change. And sometimes when you talk too much about where you’re headed, you forget to appreciate where you are right now. This isn’t a business pitch—it’s you. Let people see that.

So just take a breath. Start with real moments. Ask questions. Let others remind you of who you’ve been. It’s not about sounding perfect—it’s about sounding honest. Writing about yourself isn’t a project to finish in one sitting. It’s a process. And if it feels awkward or messy? That’s totally normal.

Just write like you’re talking to someone who really wants to know you.