FAQ / Write Your Life
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our Write Your Life annual subscription of memory and writing prompts below.
Frequently Asked Questions about our Write Your Life annual subscription:
Are the writing prompts in Write Your Life difficult?
No! The prompts in this subscription are carefully curated so they spark memories in a fun way. They are open-ended, which means that every person can interpret them in their own unique fashion; it also means that one prompt might spark so many memories that it inspires multiple stories over many days of writing. We have included tips from writing experts to make the process as smooth as possible for you, but we encourage you to write the way you talk. It’s all about capturing your memories, not writing a bestseller.
How much does Write Your Life cost?
A one year subscription (52 weeks of curated prompts) costs $132. Subscribe to our newsletter to be alerted to occasional discount codes or sales.
Do I do my writing online/via email?
No, to keep things as simple and straightforward as possible, YOU choose how you record your stories. There is no app or other software needed for Write Your Life.
Many people handwrite their stories. We recommend a journal dedicated just for this purpose or a loose-leaf binder where you can arrange things to your liking and easily edit.
Other people type their stories on a computer (usually faster than handwriting). In this case, I recommend creating one document that you update each time you write (don’t forget to back it up to the cloud or to an external hard drive so you don’t lose your precious memories!).
And for some, who don’t prefer to write at all, speaking their stories into a voice recorder (such as the one on most smart phones) is the most convenient option; those digital recordings can be easily shared with loved ones via email, and transcribed with AI software so you ultimately have a written version of your memories, too.
What if I can’t stay on schedule?
While we send you a prompt every week, we understand that life can get in the way of even the best intentions—vacations, work, family engagements, even laziness can interrupt your flow. Don’t stress. Simply print out the prompts you have missed—there’s a beautifully designed page to download in every email for this very purpose—and return to it later, when you have more time. The goal is to regularly capture your memories, not to militantly keep to an arbitrary schedule. The best time to start is now, and the best time to finish is…when you can!
Can I pause my subscription at any time?
Unfortunately, we do not currently have that capability. See above on what to do if you fall behind.
Do I have to read the free e-book that accompanies my subscription?
Of course not. You can skip the book and hit the ground running as soon as your first prompt arrives. The e-book, which is delivered two days after your subscription begins, has some helpful tips on how to prepare for your life writing journey, how to sound authentic on the page, and more. It’s 26 pages of goodness, but it’s not required reading!
What types of themes will be covered in my Write Your Life subscription?
Most themes last a few weeks, with prompts within each theme to inspire your writing. Over the course of the year, themes will include: Childhood; Food; Identity; Life Transitions; Fun & Favorites; Lessons, Values & Legacy; plus a handful of creative themes to wrap things up.
I’m buying Write Your Life as a gift for someone else. How do I make sure the emails don’t start coming to them right away?
If you know when you would like the emails to start (the week after someone’s birthday, for example), then you can specify that date in the form when you make your purchase; their subscription will begin on the date you specify. If you are not sure, then I would recommend buying a gift certificate and letting your recipient sign up when they are ready to begin.
Will I get a printed book at the end of the year?
Unlike some other services out there, Write Your Life does not create a book from your writing. There are two key reasons for this:
The quality of those books is not really great, and the business model those huge companies have is not sustainable for a small business such as Modern Heirloom Books.
I want you to focus on really getting your memories down—being thoughtful about your answers, and enjoying the journey of remembering. Your family members won’t care about the format, they’ll be thrilled that your stories were recorded at all!
I will give you ideas for creating a book or other keepsake at the end of your writing, I promise. And if you’re not the DIY type but want your stories and photos designed in an heirloom book, you might consider hiring us to design your book…but that’s not for everyone, and it’s NOT necessary!
How do I subscribe?
Give the gift of stories.
