8-Week Exploratory Memoir Writing Workshop

In this workshop, you will learn the essential skills for identifying and harnessing your lived experiences into a creative non-fiction story that captures attention, creates connections, and teaches important lessons.

• In only 8 weeks, you will learn how to draw on your lived experiences in a constructive way that promotes psychological safety.
• You will learn how to navigate the thoughts, feelings, and sensations associated with your story using mindfulness-based stress reduction practices. 
• You will also learn about the different methods you can use to creatively conceptualize your story to bring interest, enthusiasm, and anonymity to essential characters where necessary. 
• You will also explore safe and practical options for sharing and telling your story in oral and written forms.

What's included: This workshop includes an online workbook and pre- and post-meeting activities. Access to all workbooks and practice resources is included in your workshop fee.

Also included: Free access to our monthly Story Circle sessions (optional) to help you develop your personal narrative skills.

Outcome: Participants in this 8-week online workshop can look forward to completing up to 5000 written words of a life journal or personal memoir as they explore cathartic writing and story-sharing practices in a small group setting. You will have the chance to receive feedback about your emerging story. In addition, you will have the chance to explore your next steps for small-scale and personal publishing in digital or print formats.

The workshop runs for eight consecutive weeks and includes one weekly 2-hour online meeting.

Attend from anywhere using your internet-capable device. We will provide you with a Zoom link and reminders shortly before each workshop session.

You will need to have access to a microphone and camera for each meeting. Keeping your camera on for the entire meeting is optional but recommended.

Experience: Some journaling or writing experience is required.

Risks: Sessions may involve listening to or contributing to discussions about memory, loss, and survival. You should be able to make informed decisions about your tolerance levels and can choose not to participate in a discussion or activity. 

What to bring/have:

• A notebook or journal and pen for writing.
• Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable when moving, sitting, stretching, and lying down.
• A small blanket or towel (optional).
• A comfortable and private space where you can sit, lie down, talk, and walk around without interruption.