WM8: Eulogy Writing
Virtual Coach
Work step-by-step through the Know What Matters exercise with the virtual coach.
Introduction
Imagining the end of your story clarifies how you want to write the chapters that remain. Eulogy Writing invites you to draft the words you hope will be spoken at your funeral—then mine that tribute for value‑rich sentences. Research on “prospective hindsight” shows that looking back from the end strengthens commitment to core principles and sharpens priorities for daily choices.
Instructions
Eulogy Draft
Goal: Complete one eulogy draft today; revisit every 18 months or after major life transitions.
Steps
-
Set the Scene (1 min)
What it means: Close eyes; picture the setting of your memorial—venue, attendees, mood.
Example: Sunny garden, string quartet, friends & family.
Quick tip: Ambient music helps visualization.
-
Choose the Speaker (30 sec)
What it means: Pick one person (real or imagined) giving the eulogy.
Example: Adult grandchild “Jordan.”
Quick tip: Selecting a caring voice keeps tone authentic.
-
Draft the Eulogy (10 min)
What it means: In that speaker’s voice, write 250-400 words celebrating your life—stories, traits, impact. No editing yet.
Example: Jordan recalls travel adventures & your fierce fairness.
Quick tip: Keep the pen moving—flow beats polish.
-
Highlight Value Sentences (2 min)
What it means: Read through; highlight phrases that reveal values (e.g., “never broke a promise” → Integrity).
Example: Highlight: “She welcomed every stranger like family.”
Quick tip: Look for repeated qualities or turning-point anecdotes.
-
Extract Top Three Values (1 min)
What it means: List three strongest value themes.
Example: Hospitality, Courage, Justice.
Quick tip: If more than three, combine overlaps.
-
Plan One Micro-Action (30 sec)
What it means: Choose a ≤10-minute act that honors Value #1 today.
Example: Hospitality → invite new coworker to coffee tomorrow.
Quick tip: Schedule it now—locks insight into practice.
Worksheet & Virtual Coach
FAQs
Eulogy feels morbid—is this healthy?
Studies show future-self reflection boosts meaning and reduces trivial regret. If distressing, shorten scene-setting or switch to an 80th-birthday toast.
Speech turns negative—what then?
Flip each regret into a desired value (e.g., “worked too much” → Balance) and craft micro-actions around the positive form.
Can I write multiple versions?
Yes—one personal, one professional, one community-focused. Each offers unique value clues.
Do I share it with someone?
Sharing with a trusted friend can deepen accountability and refine the values you identified.
How often should I redo?
Major life shifts (new career, parenthood) warrant a fresh draft; otherwise, every 18–24 months keeps the compass current.
Disclaimer
If you have any behavioral health questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare or mental health care provider. This article is supported by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from behavioral health societies and governmental agencies. However, it is not a substitute for professional behavioral health advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
