Is it Time to Write your Story?

How to Write Your Legacy Story: 5 Steps to Start (and Actually Finish)

We all carry a story inside us—a story filled with the lessons we’ve learned, the love we’ve given and received, the faith that carried us, and the moments that shaped us. But too often, those stories remain unspoken or scattered in private journals. Writing your legacy story is how you make sure your memories, wisdom, and voice don’t disappear, but instead become a lasting gift for your children, grandchildren, and generations yet to come.

The beautiful thing? Your story doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours. Here’s how to finally start—and finish—without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Decide Who You’re Writing For

Before you write a single word, ask yourself: Who am I writing this for?
Is it a book for your family? A memoir to inspire others? A journal for a grandchild? Knowing who you’re speaking to helps you choose which memories, lessons, and stories to share.

2. Choose the Themes That Matter Most

Your legacy story doesn’t have to cover every year of your life. Focus on 3–5 themes that truly define your journey—faith, resilience, family, career, love, or personal growth. Write down short memories or lessons for each theme as a starting point.

3. Capture Your True Voice (Not Just Facts)

Your loved ones don’t just want the timeline of your life. They want you—your humor, your heart, your reflections. One of the easiest ways to do this is through AI-powered interviews, which feel like a natural conversation but leave you with a structured draft of your story. This is exactly what we do at my Words That Last: Women’s Book Writing Retreat (learn more here).

4. Give Your Story a Simple Structure

Your legacy doesn’t have to be a 300-page memoir. It can be:

• A short book (50–100 pages)

• A journal written for a specific loved one

• A collection of life lessons or milestone letters

• Or even a blend of all three

At the retreat, I’ll help you organize your memories into a format that feels right for you so you leave with your story mapped out and in your hands.

5. Let Go of Perfectionism

The hardest part isn’t the writing—it’s giving yourself permission to write without trying to make it perfect. A first draft is supposed to be messy. The magic comes when you realize your story doesn’t need polish to be powerful. It needs to be real.

Why Your Legacy Story Matters (Now, Not Someday)

Most people think, I’ll do it one day. But “one day” rarely comes. Too many stories are lost because they were never captured. Your words, your wisdom, and your love are gifts your family can’t get anywhere else.

That’s why I created the Words That Last Book Writing Retreat (reserve your spot here). In just two days, we’ll help you reflect, capture your memories, and create the framework for your book—without stress or overwhelm. You’ll walk away with something tangible, not just the idea of “someday.”

And if you’re looking for inspiration before you start, my own book, From Empty Nest to New Beginnings: A 31-Day Devotional to Get Unstuck with Faith and AI (grab it here), is proof that your words—no matter what chapter of life you’re in—can heal, inspire, and leave a lasting mark.

Your story matters. Let’s make sure it’s heard.