Why It’s More Important Now Than Ever to Tell Your Story

Your personal story is the key to staying calm

Anne Frank said in her diary,

“I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.”

The benefits of writing about traumatic or stressful experiences have been researched for years. Both your physical and mental health improve when you write. Your stress lowers, protecting your immune system. You find courage and can process strong emotions.

That’s why right now is the perfect time to write your story. Even if you never share it with anyone, the process of writing is powerful.

I began journaling at age 6 when my parents divorced. I needed an outlet to express my feelings, and even as a child I recognized the healing power of writing down my thoughts.

My many diaries (over 20 of them!) are crammed full of experiences. I wrote my way through illness and anxiety, a miscarriage and a major earthquake, and most recently, my divorce.

“I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.”

Many famous writers have also processed their pain and struggles on the page. Anne Rice, author of Interview with the Vampire, turned to writing after her young daughter died of leukemia. JK Rowling also used her writing to process darker emotions — one expression being the “dementors” in her novels.

Writing gives you the courage to say, “I can handle this.”

Tell me your story

If you’re willing to share, your story can also be encouraging to others. We’re uplifted when we hear how you overcame your battles. We’re comforted when we hear that we’re not alone in our struggles.

The world craves new voices and perspectives. We want to hear your unique voice telling the story only you can tell!

Take us with you. Put us into your mind:

• Where were you? What happened? What was said? Let us live there with you for a moment.
• Chose one part of your story — focus on a small detail of your world. Play out that scene for us and write it as if you’re watching a movie.
• Remember to also let us see your doubts, your inner debate with yourself, your weaknesses, and your worries.

For example:

Rather than say: My mother called to say my father had become ill. I was terrified.

Take the time to show us:

I listened in silence as my mother cried. “Dad’s been admitted to the hospital. They said it’s serious.”

I gripped the phone tighter, as if squeezing it would make her words different.

Her voice dropped to a whisper. “I don’t know what to do.”

I turned to face my husband. He ran a hand down my arm, sensing the panic in my body. All I could think was what a terrible daughter I’d been lately. When was the last time I’d even visited?

Showing your story helps the reader, but it also gives you more time to experience your emotions and process them.

If there’s something you need to work through — pick up a pen. Now is the time for your story.

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