Sometimes, family members are reluctant to share their personal stories. They might feel their life isn’t “interesting enough” or be hesitant about revisiting certain memories. But with the right approach, you can gently encourage them to open up.
Here are a few pointers to help you get started.
Start by creating a relaxed environment. A casual conversation over a cup of tea can do wonders for easing anxiety.
Be gentle asking questions. Use open-ended questions that prompt reflection, such as, “What was the most fun you had growing up?” or “How did you meet your best friend?”
Take your time. Patience is key. If your relative seems uncomfortable with certain topics, don’t push. Instead, let the conversation flow naturally and focus on light or positive memories at first. Once they feel more comfortable, they’ll likely be more willing to share deeper stories.
Take breaks. You’ll find the process a little exhausting, but the person sharing them memories might find it even more difficult. Be conscious that it takes emotional energy to share stories and recall details.
Celebrate the joy. There will be information, stories, people and details which your relative had temporarily forgotten about. Take time to marvel at the incredible recall people have – even if facts and details were temporarily forgotten.
If you’d like professional help encouraging reluctant family members to share their stories, CaptureMyStory is here to assist. We create a comfortable, supportive environment for capturing meaningful memories. Contact us here.