Last week I suggested you write a letter as a gift for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, or to mark a milestone like a graduation or a special birthday.
Sometimes it’s hard to get started. Tapping into your senses and writing a list of all you remember about a person helps. I use these prompts when I want to write a letter
Pick a person who’s important in your life. It could be a child, a parent, a partner, a mentor, an old friend or a new friend who’s helped you get through this year. Or pick the person you want to write a letter to.
- Start by brainstorming a list of stories about the person you picked. Set a timer for five minutes and write “Remember the time …” and then fill in the end of the sentence over and over. I love lists as there isn’t a high bar and you get lots of ideas out quickly.
- Choose one of your memories and write about it in more detail. Begin with concrete details. Where are you? Is anyone else with the two of you? What are you wearing? Focus on your senses: I see …, I hear …, I smell …, I feel …, I taste …. Write the things you don’t remember too.
- What does this memory mean to you? What does it tell you about the person or about your relationship?
You can repeat the exercise deepening more items on your brainstorming list. When you feel you have enough memories and sensory details, write your letter including your shared stories with the reader.
Here’s a quick outline of how to structure your letter:
The Why—Your reason for writing
The Story—The memories and stories you choose to share
The Reflection—Your thoughts on the stories you chose: What you learned from the story, why the story is important to you, and what you’re hoping your reader will understand
The Love—End your letter with love
Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduations are all great times to write a special letter. But you can write one at any time just to support, share gratitude or create deeper connections with someone who matters to you. Give it a try. I’d love to hear how it goes.
Want help writing? Check out my Blog where there are many posts on letter writing (put Letters in the search bar or check out the Categories Connection and Legacy) or grab my step-by-step guide Deeping Connections with Letters. Or work with me one-to-one in person over Zoom – limited spots available. Sign up here.