Universal Events on the Value of Writing a Biography

Like many professionals, our team members at Universal Events turn to accomplished leaders for insight into their success. We listen to their lectures and watch their documentaries. We also read their biographies. These efforts are immensely helpful, but we recently discovered an option we never before considered. Aliza Licht is the senior vice president of Donna Karan International’s global communications division. She is also the author of “Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It in Your Career. Rock Social Media.” She proposes that people glean the wisdom they need by writing their own biographies. We at Universal Events are intrigued by this notion. Research supports Licht’s proposition. For one study, researchers asked married people to write about their conflicts as if they were unbiased observers. They later reported increased happiness with their relationships. Another study found that participants were better at perceiving their progress when they described embarrassing experiences from the perspectives of third persons. The third person point of view is a key element in both these cases. That’s why it’s crucial to remember the idea is to write a biography – not an autobiography. According to Licht, “It’s such a great lesson in self-reflection, and I think it can really help a person get outside of themselves for a minute.” At Universal Events, we invite you to join us as we write our biographies. Be thorough. Include your education, work history, hobbies, talents, and awards. Remember to include family details and your personality as well. Then read it and evaluate yourself as objectively as possible. You’ll undoubtedly learn about all you have to offer, as well as how you need to grow. Happy writing!