Turning Moments into Memories

February is well underway. How are the new year resolutions going? Are you still sticking with them? I hope you made writing down your memories and turning them into stories a priority for 2025.

Memory is a funny thing. A single scent, a song on the radio, or an old photograph can transport us back in time. But too often, our most cherished moments remain fleeting thoughts, never fully explored or shared. This is where journalling and memoir writing prompts can be life-changing.

By taking the time to remember, we unlock stories hidden in the corners of our minds. The laughter of childhood friendships, the wisdom of a loved one’s advice, the quiet victories we once celebrated — all waiting to be rediscovered. Even the memories that caused us pain and made us think life was “over” can be looked at years later and turned into stories that show sometimes things are not as bad as they seem, or maybe despite the bad we recover.

Writing By Hand Matters

In a world dominated by screens and keyboards, picking up a pen and a paperback notebook feels almost revolutionary. Handwriting slows us down in the best possible way. It allows us to process our thoughts more deeply, to connect with our emotions, and to let stories unfold organically.

There’s something deeply personal about seeing your own handwriting on the page, a tangible record of your thoughts and experiences.

Storytelling isn’t just about preserving memories—it’s about making sense of them. Writing can be a powerful tool for healing, allowing us to reflect, process emotions, and find meaning in our experiences. It can also bring us closer to others. Sharing a story — whether with family, friends, or even just your future self—creates a bridge between past and present, between one heart and another.

I remember an episode of Doc Martin (one of the last) where 13 year old Louisa had written a letter to her future self. She loved reading that years later.

A Few Prompts to Begin Your Story

You can look at any of our memoir writing or journal prompt categories to find a variety of prompts.

I also include “Stories” where I share something I have written.

For now, here are a few simple prompts to guide you:

1. Describe a New Year’s Day from your past. What made it memorable?

2. Write about a small moment that unexpectedly changed your life.

3. Think of a family heirloom, tradition, or recipe—what story does it hold?

4. Recall a piece of advice you once received. How has it shaped you?

5. Write about a time you laughed so hard you cried.

Your Stories Matter

Every life is filled with stories worth telling. They don’t have to be grand or dramatic—they just have to be yours. This year, give yourself the gift of storytelling.

Find a quiet moment, open a notebook, and let the words flow. You might be surprised at what you remember, and even more amazed at how good it feels to write it down.