How a Love for Stories Sparked the Birth of Archive Our Lives

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to share your life story in a way that truly captures your essence? This thought inspired me to start Archive Our Lives. It's a company that helps people like you tell their stories. We use a powerful method called Guided Autobiography (GAB). The esteemed Dr. James Birren created it.

The Spark of Inspiration

It all began with a deep-rooted passion for stories. Stories that weren't only told, but felt. They could transport you to your most cherished, forgotten memories. As a coach, I found it fascinating. A single memory could unleash a flood of emotions. It could lead to profound insights and healing. But something was missing. Traditional storytelling methods often felt incomplete. This was true for those wanting to explore their personal histories.

That’s when I stumbled upon Dr. James Birren’s work on Guided Autobiography. His approach was unlike anything I'd seen. It had structure yet flexibility, and was both personal and universal. It was a process that didn’t tell a story; it brought stories to life. I knew then that I had to share this with others.

Why Guided Autobiography?

Guided Autobiography is more than a method; it’s a journey. Dr. Birren developed it. It's to help people recount their life stories through guided themes and questions. Each session reveals a new life chapter, exploring childhood memories and pivotal moments under a coach's direction. The result is a rich, multi-layered autobiography that reflects the true essence of who you are.

For me, sharing this method was not about storytelling. It was about empowerment. I want to create a space for people to explore their memories, uncover their truths, and share their stories with the world. 

The Journey So Far

Since launching Archive Our Lives and learning about GAB, I was inspired. I enrolled in the Instructor training from the Birren Center and discovered the true power of the work. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible individuals who have courageously shared their life stories. Each one is unique, yet all share a common thread—a desire to be heard, to be understood, and to leave a legacy. We do it through writing, speaking, audio, and video. Guided Autobiography is at the heart of it.

What’s Next?

As Archive Our Lives grows, I want to expand our offerings and reach more people eager to tell their stories. We are always looking for new ways to make storytelling better. We want it to be more accessible, engaging, and fun. We try this with workshops, online courses, and one-on-one coaching.

Join Us on This Journey

If you want to write your life story but don't know how, please explore Guided Autobiography with us. It’s a journey of self-discovery, healing, and connection—a journey that I’m honoured to guide you on.