Everyone has a story…
What’s yours?
If you’ve ever wondered about how you might tackle writing your story, this is for you. Write Your Life: From Memory to Story uses the Birren Guided Autobiography Process, tapping into your life experiences and transforming them into a series of compelling stories. Whether you are a seasoned writer or just starting, the GAB process offers a structured, supportive environment to explore your memories, reflect on your life, and create meaningful narratives.
You’ll write your story, two pages at a time.
We’ll spend class time talking about writing, using tools to connect with memories, and completing writing exercises. We’ll also hear each other’s stories!
You’ll finish class with at least seven meaningful essays about your personal history, and several new friends!
Benefits of this Process
Gain personal insight and self-understanding - discover patterns and explore pivot points
Enhance emotional well-being - expressive writing brings clarity and relieves stress
Develop storytelling skills - articulate and share your experience with other writers
Bond with others - share experiences in a safe and welcoming place
Preserve memories - create a legacy
Watch bottom-up history come alive with personal stories from the past
Strengthen family bonds - preserve stories and connect generations
Start a writing habit, even if you’ve never considered yourself a writer! Learn a new skill.
About the Guided Autobiography Process
The Guided Autobiography process is the result of the work of James Birren, one of the founders of the field of gerontology at the University of Southern California. Through his research on aging, grounded in life review and reminiscence, Guided Autobiography emerged as an educational and research approach to explore issues shaping adult development.
The Guided Autobiography is a structured approach to delve into one’s life story with the guidance of a trained facilitator. Individuals spend time deeply reflecting on and chronicling significant life experiences, enabling them to gain valuable insight, perspective, and a richer understanding of their personal journey.
The work continues through the Birren Center Foundation.