How can I get started writing an autobiography about my life when I don't have anything special to write about?

Writing an autiobiographical piece can be intimidating, especially when we feel like we haven't done anything special in our lives! I hope that these tips will help you out.

First, remember that your autobiography doesn't necessarily have to be about something special you've done. It can be about something you've learned or experienced during your lifetime. Do you feel like there are any important lessons you've learned over your life? Have you witnessed anything extraordinary? Do you have any hobbies or passions you have developed during your life? Thinking about these questions can help you narrow down what kind of information you want to convey in your writing. For example, if you love sports but feel that you haven't done anything special with your interest in sports, you could at least write about how this passion developed over your lifetime.

Next, consider making a timeline! Having a visual to work with while preparing to write your rough draft can help you keep track of important information. You may want to include information like the date and location of your birth or any time you've moved homes. If you've decided on a particular theme, like a love of sports, try to include a few events relevant to this theme. Even though our lives sometimes feel like we are endlessly moving forward, an autobiography gives us the opportunity to tell a story. That means if you have a particular lesson or special event to share in your writing, try to build the plot through rising action, climax, and falling action. I know that sounds tricky, but consider this -- what is the most exciting part of the story you want to tell? What happened before that? What happened after?

Even if you don't have a special theme or event to share in your autobiography, try using some concrete details to build up  your story. Maybe you could write about something funny that happened when you were younger, or an anecdote that shows how you act like you. You may also choose to focus on continuity -- what has stayed the same throughout your life, and what has changed?

It might be helpful to ask friends or family members if they have any suggestions. Maybe they remember something significant about you that you've overlooked! Looking at family photo albums or talking to family members can help jog your memory about important events and details in your life. 

When beginning your autobiography, don't worry too much about focusing on grammar or spelling. Try to get as much information out as possible -- you can revise it later. I also recommend taking breaks every 45 minutes or so when working on writing. This gives your mind a chance to relax, process all the work you've been doing, and come back to it with a fresh perspective. Your breaks should be an opportunity to stretch your legs, relax your mind, and grab a snack so you can do your best work! If you find yourself getting stressed out because you don't know what to write, take a break, but be sure to come back and give it another try.

Good luck!