Social connectedness feels good, and it is the antidote of loneliness. Most people understand how important it is for life and health.  But what is a tangible first step you can take towards connecting with a family or friend in your life? How do you get started? And then how do you make the connection deeper? 

One way to connect with loved ones is to ask them to share some stories from their lives. Sharing memories increases bonds between people and can be a powerful tool in reducing loneliness. We’ve seen it happen over and over again in our work. It can be hard to get started–you’re not sure of what questions to ask or wonder if it will be awkward–so the LifeBio team compiled a few tips and suggestions to make it go a little easier. We promise you that it is worth it.

Connection Points (aka, helpful hints for initiating storytelling):

  1. Use objects and photos to help prompt stories. It can be hard to start storytelling out of nowhere. A photo, keepsake, piece of jewelry, or even a recipe might be just the jumping off point someone needs to get their words flowing. Ask for details to help round out the memory. For example...Who gave you this recipe? When would you make this? Why do you like it so much? Do you remember an event where you served this cake?
  2. Do your homework before talking to someone. Know what you might want to focus on and what might be best to avoid if it is painful for the person to share.
  3. Pick a quiet, comfortable place for an interview. You’ll want a spot that’s distraction free where you can focus on the words being said. Have a snack and a beverage handy so you can settle in for awhile.
  4. Encourage the storyteller with your active listening. Smile and let them know you are glad to be hearing their stories. Be open-minded and non-judgmental. Try to see the story from their point of view. And don’t be afraid of long pauses. They are thinking; let them know they have all the time they need.


Ready to get started? Here are 10 LifeBio questions and prompts to get the ball rolling.

  • Who was your best friend growing up? What did you like to do together?
  • When you were a child, did you have a favorite store? Why did you like it?
  • What is the best gift you ever received? Who gave it to you? What made it special?
  • Did you have a favorite teacher? What made them your favorite?
  • What were the fashion trends when you were a teenager? Did you have a favorite outfit or piece of clothing?
  • What was your first job? What was your favorite job? Least favorite?
  • What’s a book you read that you couldn’t put down?
  • What’s the best piece of advice you ever received? Who gave it to you and why was it helpful?
  • Do you have a special collection or an heirloom that is important to you? Can you tell me about it?
  • What historical event had a big impact on you? How old were you and where were you when it happened? How did it affect your life?

We hope this helps you connect to someone in your life. If you’re looking for a way to record these stories or more prompts, we’d love to talk to you about our app, LifeBio Memory, which is an easy tool that captures voice and photos and helps you know someone in your life in a deeper, more meaningful way.  You can also learn more by visiting www.lifebio.com. 

Need help getting connected? Questions? Want to get started capturing life stories? Call 937-303-4576 or email info@lifebio.com