While it may seem uncomfortable or even macabre, writing your own obituary can actually be a thoughtful way to ensure your life story is accurately and respectfully shared after your passing. After all, your life has been lived by you, which means that there is no better author to your life story than yourself. In this blog post, we aim to guide you through the seven steps of crafting your own legacy.
1. Reflect on your life
Take some time to reflect on your life and consider what you want to include in your obituary. Think about your personal and professional accomplishments, your relationships with loved ones, and any unique qualities or characteristics that make you who you are.
2. Decide on the format of your obituary
Obituaries can vary in format and length. You may want to begin with a headline that captures the essence of your life, followed by a brief summary of your life story. You can then include details such as your birth and early life, education, career, family life, and any other significant events or accomplishments.
3. Write the first draft
Start writing your obituary by summarising your life story in a few sentences. Be sure to focus on what is most important to you and what you want people to remember about your life. You can include anecdotes, personal stories, and any special achievements or honours.
4. Edit and revise
Once you have a first draft, review and edit it for clarity and accuracy. Check for spelling and grammar errors and make sure that all the information is correct. You may want to ask a trusted friend or family member to read over the obituary and provide their feedback.
5. Include a photo
Including a carefully selected photo of yourself can help to personalise the obituary and provide a visual representation of your life. Choose a recent photo that you feel captures your personality and spirit.
6. Share your wishes
In your obituary, you may want to include any specific wishes that you have for your funeral or memorial service. This can include requests for donations to a particular charity, or your comments on how you would like to be remembered.
7. Save and share
Once you have a final draft, you may want to keep it in a safe and accessible place with your will or funeral plan, so that your loved ones can easily access it after your passing. You may also want to share it with a trusted family member or friend, so that they can ensure that your wishes are carried out after your passing.
In conclusion, writing your own obituary is a wonderful opportunity to ensure that your life story is accurately recorded and represented in accordance with your own wishes. In following the seven steps that we have outlined for you above, you may find the experience of writing your own obituary meaningful and empowering rather than morbid or dreary. More importantly, you will be left with an obituary that you know you can be proud of, since you wrote it yourself! My Final Farewell.
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