You’ve been thinking about writing your life story, but somehow, you never actually start. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. Many people dream of documenting their experiences, lessons, and memories but get stuck before pen meets paper (or fingers hit the keyboard). Guided Autobiography (GAB) is a fantastic way to structure your story, yet even with a framework, you might find yourself hesitating.
Let’s uncover eight common reasons you haven’t started writing—and more importantly, how to fix them fast.
1. “I Don’t Know Where to Start”
The Fix: Start with a simple life theme.
Guided Autobiography is built around writing short stories based on life themes—like Turning Points or Family Influences. You don’t need to start at birth or write in order. Just pick a theme that speaks to you and write one memory.
Quick Tip: If you need structure, try HDRW’s Discover Your Story workshop or the Raven’s Flight Intensive course—both guide you through themes step by step.
2. “I’m Not a Good Writer”
The Fix: Forget about being ‘good’—just be you.
This isn’t high school English. No one is grading you. Guided Autobiography is about capturing your voice and experiences, not writing a bestseller.
Quick Tip: Read your writing out loud. If it sounds like you are telling a story to a friend, you’re on the right track.
3. “I Don’t Have Time”
The Fix: Write in small, focused sessions.
You don’t need hours of free time, just 15 minutes. Set a timer and write without overthinking. A few short sessions a week can add up to a full story before you know it.
Quick Tip: Join a writing group for accountability. My Raven Rise & Write sessions help keep you on track.
4. “My Life Isn’t Interesting”
The Fix: Recognize that your stories matter.
You don’t need to have climbed Mount Everest to have a story worth telling. Your experiences—big or small—shaped who you are. Even everyday moments carry meaning.
Quick Tip: Write about the first job you ever had, a favorite childhood meal, or a time you had to make a tough decision. The magic is in the details.
5. “I Can’t Remember Everything”
The Fix: Use memory triggers.
Old photos, music, and even scents can unlock forgotten memories. Try flipping through a photo album or listening to songs from your past to jog your memory.
Quick Tip: Keep a small notebook handy. Jot down memories as they come to you, so you don’t lose them.
6. “I’m Afraid of What Might Come Up”
The Fix: Give yourself permission to write without judgment.
Writing about difficult moments can be emotional, but it’s also healing. Remember, you decide what to share. You can write for your eyes only or save certain stories for later.
Quick Tip: Start with lighthearted memories if deeper topics feel too overwhelming at first.
7. “I’m Overwhelmed by Too Many Stories”
The Fix: Break it down into smaller parts.
Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, focus on just one story at a time. Guided Autobiography is designed for this—one theme, one story, one step at a time.
Quick Tip: Create a “Life Themes Map” to organize your thoughts. (I can help with that!)
8. “I’m Waiting for the Perfect Moment”
The Fix: Start now. There is no perfect time.
Life is busy, but waiting for the “right” time often means never starting at all. Your stories deserve to be told, and the best time to begin? Right now.
Quick Tip: Schedule your first writing session today—even if it’s just five minutes.
Final Thought: Your Story Matters
There’s no wrong way to begin your Guided Autobiography journey. The key is to start somewhere—one memory, one story at a time. Don’t let self-doubt, time, or perfectionism hold you back.
Ready to finally start? Check out our upcoming Discover Your Story or the Raven’s Flight Intensive workshops to get the guidance and support you need!
Which of these reasons has held you back the most? Let me know in the comments!
“Like the raven, embrace the unknown; every leap into the void is a step toward transformation.”
