How do you begin? How do you capture the essence of your life? The answer is simple: Take the first step. Writing your memoir requires courage, authenticity, and a willingness to explore your past ...

If it helps, leave a placeholder and start in the body of the essay, where the story truly takes off and you get to the things you most want to say. Try not to judge your writing itself – there ...

Most family members will value your life stories as much as anything else you give them. And like real estate, your stories gather interest as time passes.