I’ve been continuously learning to master the craft of writing, but I have not written my memoir since the end of August.

To be honest, I hit a roadblock.

When we face stressful situations, our response could be to flee, fight, or freeze. It’s all coming down to a choice. Sometimes I do all of them. 

When it was time to open one notebook and transcribe the written experience of one pivotal point in my life, I froze. It seemed like I had encountered a thick wall full of painful memories. I desired to pass the obstacle, but how?

“But I am so close to finishing my first draft,” I tried to convince myself. “I just need to push a little further.”

My mind resisted. It wanted to prevent me from opening the old wounds and keep me safe.

However, I knew I had to overcome the challenge because that notebook was essential to my memoir.

Bookmark Strategy

My writing coach recommended using color bookmarks. I only had to read and bookmark my notes with two colors: green stickers—ready for typing and red ones—putting notes aside for now due to triggering me. 

At the end of October, I grabbed my favorite soothing tea, lit a candle, and dove into reading old thoughts and emotions. I read page after page without difficulty, reminding myself it wasn’t my present life. 

Setting a cozy environment is helpful.

The sight of only green bookmarks surprised me—I was ready to write about my emotional experiences. 

And with this helpful strategy in place, I grabbed this task by the tail and resumed transcribing notes for my memoir. 

Behind the Scenes: Seeking Help

The pivotal moment happened over seven years ago. Why did I dread it so much? 

I learned from memoir-related interviews and workshops about how essential therapy could be. So, I started to seek a professional to help me with the challenges of writing my memoir.

Why did it take so long to seek therapy? I felt ashamed to talk to a stranger about my inner challenges. I’d keep postponing the idea of therapy to the back burner. After all, I believed I could navigate through the hard times using my spiritual tools and friends’ support. 

Now, I realize I need therapy to help me handle sensitive memories while revising.

Back in the Game

“I am on the right path,” I reminded myself, knowing I do everything I need to succeed. Taking part in writing-related events fueled my passion and motivated me to keep writing.

So now, I am back to the almost completed first draft. I’m soooo close to the finish line of this first step that took years in the making. No matter what, I always rise like a phoenix and follow my soul’s calling to share my story.

Find out more about my Confession of a Memoirist in Part 1 and Part 2.

Do you write? If you do, you are a writer. Claim it!

If you are also on a writing journey, let’s connect: angelicearthguidance@gmail.com. We can support each other by being accountable.