Getting Your Memoir Writing Resolution Back on Track
Why do so many people abandon their New Year's resolution to write their life story? In this episode, Barbara explores the science behind habit formation and how to apply it specifically to memoir writing. Drawing from behavioral scientist Katy Milkman's research on habit formation, we break down the key barriers that stop aspiring memoirists—and provide concrete solutions to overcome them.
Why the second Friday of January is known as "Quitter's Day"
The "What the Hell Effect" and how it derails memoir writers
Why rigid writing schedules often backfire
How to use "temptation bundling" to make writing irresistible
The right (and wrong) ways to use fresh starts in your writing practice
Present bias in memoir writing
Flexible vs. rigid routines
Commitment devices for writers
The mentorship effect
Progress tracking systems How To Change: The Science of Getting From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be by Katy Milkman https://www.amazon.com/How-Change-Science-Getting-Where/dp/059308375X
Memoir doctor Wendy Dale's interview on Writing for Immortality https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/writingforimmortality/episodes/Why-Your-Memoir-Isnt-Working-and-How-to-Fix-It-with-Wendy-Dale-e2t84u4
00:00 New Year, New Goals: The Quitters Day Reality
02:30 Understanding Barriers to Memoir Writing
04:37 The 'What the Hell' Effect: Overcoming Setbacks
17:12 Flexibility in Writing Routines
20:49 Present Bias: Finding Immediate Rewards
25:30 Fresh Starts: Embracing New Beginnings
28:44 Maintaining Long-Term Motivation
Join the conversation: Share your memoir writing challenges and successes with us on social media using #Writing4Immortality #MemoirWriting #WritingHabits