Читать книгу Start & Run a Personal History Business - Jennifer Campbell - Страница 20

Personal historians come from all walks of life. They are writers, editors, teachers, graphic designers, photographers, genealogists, historians, memoir coaches, journalists, broadcasters, psychologists, lawyers, nurses, doctors, social workers, life coaches, anthropologists, sociologists, hospice volunteers, therapists, gerontologists, religious leaders — or anyone with an interest in preserving life stories, family histories, corporate histories, community histories, and organizational histories. Here are a few examples of how various professionals could transfer their skills to a personal history business:

• Creative-writing and memoir-writing teachers at colleges, universities and online: You’re already teaching the basics and making the contacts. Why not learn how to turn these into a financially rewarding business?

• Writers, editors, journalists, and broadcasters: Bring interviewing, writing, and editing skills to draw people out to share their life stories.

• Counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, health care workers, and gerontologists: Use listening skills and understanding of the human psyche to help people review and make sense of their lives.

• Genealogists: Add the stories behind the family tree.

• Scrapbookers and photobook publishers: A personal history business takes you a step further into the realm of the stories behind the photos.

• Other professionals who work with retirees or in any aspect of eldercare: Recent surveys and research show that reviewing one’s life is highly beneficial mentally and emotionally, especially for the elderly. Related activities and programs are growing in number all across North America, at assisted living centers and seniors’ residences, on tours, and at retreats, etc. The number of people involved in eldercare will grow exponentially as baby boomers get older.