When you write an autobiography, you’re telling the story of your life through introspection. You’re the only person capable of knowing your version of self-talk – and that self-talk, your perceptions of yourself and the events of your life are always evolving. Yesterday’s mistake could seem like today’s stroke of luck. But you’re the only one who’s experienced all your experiences. And you’re the only one with a complete knowledge of your history.

Some may say, “Well, my mother’s been involved in my entire life and knows everything about me.” But does she? Doubtful. Some others may be very close with a sibling and think they know the sibling’s entire life’s story. But there are always feelings, thoughts, and perceived failures we don’t share.

If your self-talk has always been somewhat condescending, I imagine your autobiography would reflect your inner critic. Likewise, if you were overly proud of yourself and your accomplishments, your autobiography would indicate that tone.

Biography

If your ex-boyfriend, mother, confidant, or child wrote your biography, how would the story differ? One may tell a story of growth, while others tell a story of despair. Even if you have two children, I’m sure they’d each have a different tale to tell about the successes and failures they’ve witnessed.

Despite the stories being different, they are all true. The authors may have distinctly different agendas, perspectives and self-talk to add into the mix, but there is an element of truth in each. We are not perfect, we err. And depending on where your life’s journeys have converged, the beginning, the end, and the middle are not the same.

Your Story

Your story is always the most important. Being able to look at yourself in the mirror and smile with acceptance at what you see is invaluable. Tell your story and tell it proud. You can tell the triumphs and the pitfalls. You can talk of change and acceptance. And if your story changes – that’s okay too. We don’t have to be the same person we were yesterday or last year. It’s your story. You get to choose the beginning, the middle, and the end.

Go live a good story.