The Transformative Power of Legacy Writing: A Conversation with Rebecka Vigus

Legacy writing has the unique power to connect us to our past, preserve cherished memories, and even boost cognitive health. In a world where stories often fade with time, legacy writing offers a way to keep those stories alive, ensuring that future generations can learn, grow, and draw inspiration from their family history. Rebecka Vigus, a seasoned writing coach and passionate advocate for legacy writing, has dedicated her career to helping individuals capture their life stories in meaningful and lasting ways. Through workshops, coaching, and personal experience, she’s seen firsthand the transformative impact of documenting memories—not just on families, but on the writers themselves.

In this insightful conversation, Rebecka delves into how legacy writing became a crucial part of her life, the profound discoveries she’s made along the way, and why she believes it can play a vital role in preventing cognitive decline. Whether you’re someone who’s never considered legacy writing before or an experienced writer looking to explore a new form of expression, this interview offers valuable tips, personal anecdotes, and a heartfelt call to action to start preserving your own legacy today.

Thank you so much for joining us, Rebecka! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

Thank you, Stacey. Legacy writing became part of my life about 14 years ago, right after I retired. The journey began unexpectedly at a family gathering, when a cousin approached me with a manila envelope that contained just one page. He handed it to me with a simple request: “Now that you’re retired and have some time, you can take on our family history.” At first, I didn’t think much of it—it felt like a task I could do on the side. But once I started digging into my family’s past, it turned into something far more meaningful than I ever imagined. I began using Ancestry.com, where I not only uncovered historical documents but also stumbled upon long-lost relatives. It was fascinating to see the connections between generations and realize that each of those names on the family tree had their own story to tell. That simple moment with my cousin sparked a lifelong passion for documenting memories and preserving stories through legacy writing.

How did those discoveries impact you personally?

It was absolutely life-changing. Before I started, I thought I knew my family history fairly well, but this process opened up an entirely new world for me. One story that had a profound impact on me was about my great-grandfather and his brother. They worked on the railroad in Wyoming, and after more than a year of hard labor, they had finally earned their wages and were set to return home. Tragically, they were ambushed and murdered in a train yard, robbed of the money they had just earned. Learning about this story was heartbreaking, but it also gave me a deeper appreciation for the hardships and sacrifices my ancestors endured. Suddenly, genealogy wasn’t just a hobby; it became a way to honor those who came before me. Stories like that inspired me to write them down, not only to preserve their memory but also to give future generations a sense of their heritage and resilience.

Why do you believe legacy writing is important, especially when it comes to brain health?

Legacy writing isn’t just about recording the past—it’s a powerful mental exercise. The act of recalling memories and turning them into written stories stimulates the brain, activating neurons and encouraging new neural pathways to form. This kind of cognitive engagement can help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia by keeping the mind active and sharp. Numerous studies have shown that mental activities like writing, puzzles, and strategy games can slow cognitive decline, and legacy writing fits perfectly into that category. Beyond the physical benefits, it also brings a sense of emotional well-being. When people write about their lives, they often gain clarity, find closure, and experience a renewed connection to their identity. It’s therapeutic in a way, offering not only a way to preserve history but also an opportunity for personal reflection and growth. And most importantly, it gives people a purpose—they’re not just writing for themselves, but creating something meaningful for their family and future generations.

For someone who might feel overwhelmed, what’s the best way to start legacy writing?

It’s simpler than most people think, and it doesn’t have to be an intimidating process. I always recommend starting small. Begin by picking a single photo—one that brings back a fond memory or holds special meaning. Sit down with that photo and write the story behind it. Don’t worry about length; even a short paragraph is enough to capture the essence of the moment. You don’t need to aim for a full book right away—think of it as collecting individual stories, one at a time. Over time, these small stories will add up to something much bigger. If possible, scan the photo and include it with the story—it makes it even more personal and tangible. This approach helps eliminate the pressure of starting something huge and instead focuses on simple, manageable steps. Remember, legacy writing isn’t about perfection—it’s about capturing memories, emotions, and experiences in a way that future generations can cherish.

Have you ever come across surprising or unexpected information during your family research?

Oh yes, there were plenty of surprises, some of which were truly astounding. One of the most remarkable discoveries was learning that I’m descended from Robert the Bruce, the last King of Scotland. It felt surreal to uncover such a significant piece of history in my family lineage. Suddenly, history wasn’t just something I read about—it was personal. It gave me a deeper sense of pride and connection to my ancestry. Another unexpected discovery was finding living relatives I didn’t even know existed, including a cousin who lives only 30 minutes away from me. That realization was a testament to how history can forge new bonds, not just between the past and present, but also between people who may have never crossed paths otherwise. These experiences remind me that genealogy is more than a hobby—it’s an adventure into the unknown, with every piece of information offering new insights into who we are.

How do you encourage younger generations to get involved in legacy writing?

Getting younger generations interested in legacy writing can be challenging, but it’s all about making the process interactive and enjoyable. Kids today are naturally curious, so I suggest starting with something engaging like family interviews. Encourage them to sit down with grandparents or older relatives and ask questions about their childhood, traditions, or significant life events. Recording these conversations—either through audio or video—makes the process feel less like an assignment and more like a fun project. Once they have the stories, they can write them down, adding their own creative touch. This approach not only helps preserve family history but also makes younger generations feel like they’re part of something bigger. It’s a wonderful way to connect them to their roots while fostering a love for storytelling.

Are there any specific hobbies or activities that you’ve found particularly stimulating for the mind, aside from writing?

Definitely! I enjoy activities that challenge my mind, such as crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and strategy games like Pinochle and Euchre. These hobbies are more than just entertainment—they require critical thinking, pattern recognition, and planning ahead, all of which keep the brain active and sharp. Strategy games, for example, force you to anticipate your opponent’s moves and think multiple steps ahead. Even simple card games like solitaire can have mental benefits because they make you strategize and consider outcomes. Staying mentally engaged through these hobbies complements my writing and keeps me alert. They’re my way of giving my brain a regular workout while also having fun.

How has legacy writing impacted your life personally, beyond just brain health?

Legacy writing has had a profound impact on me beyond keeping my mind active—it’s given me a deeper sense of identity and connection. As I reflect on my memories and family history, I’ve gained a greater appreciation for where I come from and who I am. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share these stories with my family, especially when they respond with surprise or nostalgia, saying things like, “I never knew that,” or “I remember that too.” Knowing that I’m preserving these stories for future generations brings a sense of purpose to my writing. It’s not just about recording facts—it’s about capturing emotions, lessons, and experiences that define us as individuals and as a family.

Can you share a memory that was particularly emotional for you to write about?

One of the most emotional memories I’ve written about is my grandfather’s hands. He was a brick mason, and his hands were always rough, chafed, and cracked from years of hard labor. Yet, those same hands could create beautiful music when he played his concertina. I vividly remember watching him play, his fingers moving gracefully over the keys, transforming that rough exterior into something so delicate and musical. That juxtaposition of strength and gentleness deeply moved me. Writing about it brought back a flood of emotions and memories of the love and warmth he gave us. It was a powerful reminder of how simple details—like someone’s hands—can carry so much meaning and evoke strong feelings. Sharing that story with my family made it even more special, as it brought back memories for them too.

What services do you offer for those interested in legacy writing?

I offer a variety of services to help individuals get started with legacy writing. For those who prefer personalized guidance, I provide one-on-one coaching, where I work closely with clients to help them structure their stories, overcome writer’s block, and bring their memories to life. I also offer group coaching, which is more affordable and allows participants to learn from each other’s experiences while working on their own projects. Additionally, I’ve created a Facebook group where members can ask questions, share their progress, and receive feedback from both myself and other writers. Beyond legacy writing, I’m developing a course based on my book Let’s Write Fiction, which will guide aspiring writers through the creative process at their own pace. This course will be available in 2025, and I’m excited to see how it can help more people discover their voice and tell their stories. available in 2025. The course is designed to help people navigate the writing process at their own pace.

How can people join your legacy writing workshops?

I have a live Zoom workshop scheduled for January 8th, designed to be an interactive, hands-on experience. Participants only need to bring a cherished photo, a piece of paper, and a pen or pencil. During the session, I’ll guide them step by step in recalling a memory associated with the photo and turning it into a written story. The workshop is ideal for anyone curious about legacy writing, whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your skills. By the end of the session, participants will have completed their first legacy story, giving them a foundation to build on. Additionally, they’ll walk away with practical strategies and inspiration to continue documenting their personal or family history. Details and registration links can be found on my website or through my social media pages.

Where can people find your books and learn more about your work?

My books are available for purchase on my website, RebeckaVigus.com, as well as on major online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. On my website, readers will find a dedicated section showcasing my current and upcoming books, including my legacy writing project. Whether you’re interested in fiction, self-help, or legacy writing, there’s something for everyone. I also regularly update the site with new resources, event information, and blog posts to help readers and writers on their creative journeys.

Before we wrap up, what key takeaways would you like our readers to remember about legacy writing?

First and foremost, legacy writing is for everyone. You don’t have to be a professional writer or have perfect grammar—this process is about capturing memories and preserving them for future generations. It’s also a powerful mental exercise, keeping your brain active and engaged, which can help in maintaining cognitive health as you age. Lastly, legacy writing is a gift. By documenting your life experiences, you’re creating something tangible that your family can cherish for years to come. It’s a beautiful way to honor the past, reflect on the present, and inspire the future.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

Readers can stay connected by visiting my website, RebeckaVigus.com, where I regularly post updates about my workshops, books, and upcoming events. Additionally, I’m very active on Facebook, where I share writing tips, motivational content, and announcements about new projects. I encourage anyone interested in writing or storytelling to join my online community and participate in the conversations. Whether you’re looking for writing guidance or just want to follow along with my journey, there are plenty of resources available to help you.

Thank you so much, Rebecka. This has been such an insightful and inspiring conversation.

Thank you, Stacey. It’s been a pleasure sharing my passion for legacy writing. I hope more people feel inspired to start their own legacy writing journey.

Rebecka Vigus is a prolific author, seasoned writing coach, and passionate advocate for legacy writing. With a career spanning numerous genres, including fiction, self-help, and personal development, she has dedicated herself to helping aspiring writers unlock their creativity and tell their stories. Through her workshops, coaching programs, and books like Let’s Write Fiction, Rebecka guides individuals in transforming their memories into meaningful narratives. Her mission is not only to inspire writers but also to preserve personal and family histories for future generations.