Writing from Your Scars and Not Your Wounds: A Guide for Aspiring Memoir Writers

Are you considering writing a memoir or a similar personal narrative? As someone who has navigated the challenging terrain of documenting my family’s story of cancer, debilitating injury followed by financial ruin, and then the loss of a child, I want to offer you some insights and advice to help you avoid the pitfalls and missteps I encountered along the way.

WRITING WITH PURPOSE AND REFLECTION

First, it’s crucial to write from a place of reflection and healing, rather than from raw pain and unresolved trauma. I recently had a powerful conversation with a woman who assists survivors of human trafficking. She shared a crucial question that applies to all writers: Are you sharing your story from a place of hurting, healing, or helping others? 

Before embarking on your writing journey, take the time to assess your intentions and motivations. As Joanna Penn, with The Creative Penn has said, “Writing from your scars requires introspection, empathy, and a willingness to embrace the complexities of your narrative. By weaving together the threads of your past with compassion and insight, you can craft a memoir that speaks to the universal human experience.” 

If you find yourself still grappling with deep emotional wounds, consider starting with journaling as a therapeutic outlet. Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing your experiences and emotions before delving into broader storytelling. I also had to seek support from other writers, therapists, and mentors to help me navigate writing from a place of healing.

PREPARATION AND SUPPORT

The website The Write Life offers tons of practical tips and help for memoir authors. They say, “Memoir writing can be a powerful form of self-expression and catharsis. By documenting your experiences with honesty and compassion, you can create a narrative that resonates with others on a deep emotional level.” There is immense value in working through your hurt so you can present a memoir that will help others find healing and hope.

I am so grateful for the writing mentor who helped me mine the complexities of our story, uncovering universal truths that can resonate with readers. I highly recommend you find a trusted mentor to help you as well. They will see things from a fresh perspective. Be open and teachable as they offer you guidance.

Writing groups, such as Word Weavers International, can provide you with a supportive community of fellow writers who can offer constructive feedback and encouragement. Embrace feedback as a valuable opportunity for growth and refinement in your craft. Remember, good writing is a skill that takes time to cultivate and refine.

FAITH AND PATIENCE

As believers, we can lean on our faith for guidance and patience in our writing journey. Trust in God’s timing and be open to the lessons He will teach you through the process. Writing, like any art form, requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

In the time of learning, healing, and writing, don’t forget to practice biblical self-care and compassion as well. Treat yourself kindly and with understanding as you revisit and write about difficult memories, acknowledging your growth and progress. Deep healing and restoration will take a lot out of you and God’s Spirit is there to renew and replenish you as you go. When you take care of your physical and mental health, your writing can be its best. Positive Writer sums it up well: “As you embark on your memoir-writing journey, remember to be gentle with yourself.”

Our goal is to offer hope and inspiration. We want to show how we have transformed our wounds into sources of strength and empowerment, encouraging others to do the same.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR BEGINNING WRITERS

You’ve worked through the deep wounds and found healing. You’ve actively sought help and graciously received it. Embracing vulnerability and authenticity, you’re ready to share your story with readers without reopening old wounds. You desire to provide insight and wisdom gained from overcoming difficult experiences, offering hope and inspiration to others. Now, where do you begin?

• Hone your craft while balancing your existing commitments. 
• Consider investing in writing courses or attending conferences to expand your knowledge and skills. Check out the best small conference you will attend at Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference.
• If finances are a concern, explore free resources such as libraries, online tutorials, podcasts, and writing groups that offer affordable memberships.
• There is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing. 
• Experiment with different writing routines, environments, and tools to discover what works best for you. Whether you prefer a clutter-free desk, background music, or late-night writing sessions, find the conditions that inspire your creativity and productivity.
• You may want to consider using metaphor and symbolism to convey emotions and struggles, rather than diving deep into raw emotions.

EMBRACE THE JOURNEY

“Writing from a place of healing allows you to transform your pain into a source of strength and wisdom. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and authenticity in your memoir-writing process.” – Writing.ie

Writing from your scars requires courage, vulnerability, and a genuine desire to connect with others through your story. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth that writing entails, and to share from a place of healing and hope. Your words have the power to inspire, uplift, and resonate with readers on a profound level.

Remember that our past does not define us, and writing from a place of healing can help us connect with others and inspire them on their journeys.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Here are some additional resources and support to help you on your memoir writing path. Remember to always check the credibility and alignment with your beliefs of any website before utilizing their services or materials.

• Christian Authors Network (CAN) – a community of Christian authors who provide support and resources for writers looking to share their faith through memoirs and other forms of writing.
• The Christian PEN (Professional Editors Network) – offers editing services and resources for Christian writers, including those working on memoirs.
• Jerry B. Jenkins Writers Guild – a Christian writing community founded by Jerry B. Jenkins, best known for co-authoring the Left Behind series. Offers courses and resources for authors, including those writing memoirs.
• The Christian Writer’s Institute – offers online writing courses, resources, and other support for Christian authors, including a memoir-specific course. 
• The Write Practice – offers online writing courses, resources, and a supportive writing community, which can be beneficial for Christian authors looking to write memoirs.
• Christianwriters.com -a community of Christian writers that provides forums, tips, and resources for authors working on memoirs with a faith-based perspective.
• TheMemoirNetwork.com – although not exclusively Christian, this website offers guidance and tools for writing memoirs, with a focus on personal storytelling and self-expression.

What other insights or tips would you add to this guide for aspiring memoir writers? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

About the Author

Jenny Leavitt, award-winning author of GodPrints, shares her family’s journey of survival after losing her son to a drunk driver. As a pastor’s wife, she offers support as a Mental Health Coach specializing in Grief and Loss. Jenny’s dedication to serving others embodies hope and healing in times of grief. www.jennyleavitt.com.