Working Backwards



In family history research, if you are having difficulties with a certain person, the advice from Anthony Camp is, “Kill off your ancestor!”  In other words, start with the person’s death and work backwards.

You want to write your personal history; my advice is the same:  kill off yourself!  Begin by writing your obituary, yes, I just told you that! 

An obituary is a brief summary of your life; a story of your life.  Write up a copy to your satisfaction, and then set it aside.  As you go through your week, think of things you may want to add.  In addition, begin to make up a separate list of stories or items from your life you would like to expand upon.

 After finalizing your obituary next write up a short biography, “life history” or tribute in the format that is generally used at funerals.  Over time keep adding to your obit and personal history as memories are remembered or as new events happen. 

Here are some links with excellent ideas on how to get started on writing your obituary:

Obituary Writing Tips:

http://obituaryguide.com/writingtips.php

How to Write Your Own Obituary:

http://obituaryguide.com/writeyourown.php

How to Write and Obituary in 10 Easy Steps:

http://howtowrite.weebly.com/how-to-write-an-obituary.html

How to Write Your Own Obituary:

http://resources.yourtribute.com/obituaries/write-your-own-obituary/

How To Write A Good Obituary:

http://resources.yourtribute.com/obituaries/how-to-write-a-good-obituary/

Write Your Own Obituary:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/josh-misner-phd/write-your-own-obituary_b_5009490.html

What to Say in an Obituary or Tribute:

http://www.tributes.com/national/what_to_write


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