How to use Before Now
How do I explain Before Now to my loved one(s)?
Try saying the following:
"Hi, I saw something called Before Now and it made me think of you. It’s basically a way to have a relaxed chat about your life and memories, then turn it into a book. It'll mean your stories can be kept and shared with family.
I’d love to do it with you, just at your pace and only what you feel happy sharing. What do you think?"
Also, send them (or print) this page!
What if my loved one feels unsure or shy?
That’s completely normal. You can take it slowly, skip any questions, and only talk about what feels comfortable. The aim is to enjoy the time together, not to get everything perfect.
Do we have to answer every question?
Not at all. The cards are there to guide you, but you can pick and choose what feels right. Some of the best conversations happen when you go off track.
What if we get emotional?
That’s okay. These conversations can bring up strong feelings. You can pause, take a break, or change the topic at any time. There’s no pressure to keep going.
How do I record our conversations?
You can simply use your phone to record. Find a quiet space, press record, and let the conversation flow naturally. It doesn’t need to be perfect.
How long should each conversation be?
There’s no set time. It could be ten minutes or a couple of hours. Go at a pace that feels comfortable for both of you.
Can more than one person take part?
Only one person should answer at a time, but multiple people can ask questions. You can do multiple Before Now questions with different people and upload them as part of one book, if you like!
What if my loved one changes their mind about something they shared?
That’s absolutely fine. You’ll have the chance to review everything before it’s printed, so anything can be changed or removed!
