Interview Topics
Here are some topics to contemplate as you approach your life review:
Vital Statistics
- Full name
- Date and place of birth
- Current residence
Family History
- Family of origin — parents and siblings
- Parents’ career(s)
- Other relatives — grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, etc.
Growing Up
- Most memorable moments from growing up
- Most important people in your life while growing up
- Memories of school – e.g., favorite subjects and teachers
- Higher education
Relationships
- Significant others
- Spouse(s)
- Joys and challenges of married/single life
- Mentors
Children
- Name and brief profile of each child
- Most memorable moments from their childhood
- Their current activities and relationship with you
- Grandchildren (and possibly great-grandchildren)
Service and Career
- Details of any military service
- Principal career(s) and thoughts regarding career satisfaction
- Community service
Health
- Current health
- Health history
Culture
- Interests in art, music, theater, etc.
- Interests in sports and recreation
- Travel
- Languages spoken
Current Life
- Current life and activities
- Most important people in your life now
- Most challenging aspects of your life now
Looking back…
- Are you satisfied with how you’ve lived your life?
- Do you have any major regrets or unfinished business?
- What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
- What would you like your children and grandchildren to remember about you?
- If you could live your live over, what (if anything) would you do differently?
- Is there a road not taken that you may still choose to try going forward?
Looking inward…
- How would you describe the purpose of your life?
- What are your thoughts on the meaning of human existence, as apart from the meaning of your own life?
- What advice about life would you offer a young person?
- Are there other thoughts or comments you’d like to add?