Memory & storytelling
51 best questions to ask family members
Whether you’re sitting down with a parent, grandparent, sibling, or another relative, these questions are designed to help start warm, meaningful conversations.
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Writer
Daniel Papp
COO & Co-Founder
Daniel Papp is the COO and co-founder of My Stories Matter, where he manages day-to-day operations and product development. He studied Business Information Systems and Computer Science at Cal Poly and brings a personal interest in memory capture to the product.
22 postsWriting since 2020
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22 posts
Writing tips
9 common mistakes people make when writing a memoir
In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common mistakes people make when writing a memoir, and how to avoid them so the process feels simpler, more enjoyable, and more meaningful.
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Memory & storytelling+1Additional topics: Start your memoir
50 questions to help you remember your life story
These questions are designed to help gently unlock those memories, without pressure, and without needing to answer them all at once.
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Writing tips+1Additional topics: Start your memoir
What should you include in a memoir? (Real examples & ideas)
One of the most common questions people ask when starting a memoir is simple: “What should I actually include?” If you’re unsure where to begin, here are some of the most meaningful things people often include in their memoir.
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Memory & storytelling
Exploring your family history: 26 questions to ask your parents
Here are 26 questions to help your parents share their stories, experiences, and wisdom.
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Memory & storytelling
25 best questions to ask your grandparents
Here are 25 questions to help your grandparents share their stories, experiences, and wisdom.
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Writing tips+1Additional topics: Start your memoir
How to write a memoir: The complete guide
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about writing a memoir. We've also included links to more detailed articles that explore each topic in greater depth.
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Memory & storytelling
What is a family legacy? Meaning, examples, and how to create one
A family legacy is the collection of stories, values, traditions, memories, and life lessons passed down from one generation to the next.
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Memory & storytelling
Memoir vs. Autobiography: Understanding the key differences
Both memoirs and autobiographies preserve memories, experiences, and life lessons for future generations. The main difference lies in how those stories are told.
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Start your memoir+1Additional topics: Writing tips
4 memoir ideas to help you start your life story
If you want to write your memoir but feel stuck, here are four simple ideas to help you get started.
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Writing tips+1Additional topics: Memory & storytelling
How to bring a memory to life
Whether you're writing a memoir, recording family stories, or simply reflecting on your life, learning how to bring a memory to life can transform a brief recollection into a rich and meaningful story.
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Memory & storytelling
10 questions to ask yourself for a happier life
Asking thoughtful questions can help you better understand yourself, appreciate how far you've come, and identify what truly matters moving forward. Here are 10 questions worth reflecting on.
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Writing tips
How to start journaling: 7 tips for beginners
A few simple habits can make the process easier, more enjoyable, and more rewarding.
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Memory & storytelling
How to record your vacation stories
By writing down your memories, saving photographs, and capturing small details while they are still fresh, you can create a richer record of your travels to share with family and revisit in the future. Here are some simple tips to help you record your vacation stories.
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Life story books+1Additional topics: Memory & storytelling
How to record your military stories for future generations
You have unique experiences and stories worth sharing and preserving as a military member. These stories can provide valuable insights and lessons for future generations and can also serve as a way to connect with others
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Life story books+1Additional topics: Memory & storytelling
How to preserve your grandparents’ memories for future generations
The good news is that preserving your grandparents' memories doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple conversations today can become treasured family stories for generations to come.
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Life story books
How to create a life stories book
Whether you're creating a book for yourself, a parent, or a grandparent, these seven steps will help you create a life story book your family will treasure.
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Memory & storytelling
4 surprising facts about storytelling
Here are four fascinating facts about storytelling and why it continues to shape how we connect with others.
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Memory & storytelling
The many cognitive benefits of journaling
Whether you're writing about your day, recording family memories, or reflecting on the past, journaling can support your wellbeing and help preserve the stories that matter. Here are five benefits of journaling.
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Memory & storytelling
6 ways to reduce memory loss (and it has little to do with age)
While no one can remember everything, research suggests there are several things we can do to support brain health and keep our memories sharper for longer.
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Memory & storytelling
How music triggers memories: The science behind nostalgia
Few things trigger memories as powerfully as music. A single song can unlock emotions, people, places, and experiences that seem buried deep in the past. But why does this happen, and can we use music deliberately to strengthen and preserve our memories?
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Memory & storytelling
Why many people get happier as they age: The happiness curve
Though many young people think that life is “all downhill from here,” research shows that the older years of our life are also our happiest.
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