Life Timeline Mapping
Draw a simple timeline of your life so far, marking key moments, relationships, places, and turning points.
Materials & Shopping Links
Large Paper or Poster
A bigger surface makes it easier to see everything at once
Quantity: 1 per person
Pens and Markers
Different colors for different themes or types of events
Quantity: Shared set
Sticky Notes (Optional)
For moveable events you might want to rearrange
Quantity: 10–20 per person
Welcome to Life Timeline Mapping
Sometimes it helps to see your life all at once. A timeline lets you step back and notice patterns, chapters, and moments that shaped you.
Before You Begin
- Allow 45–90 minutes if you can
- Find a flat surface where you can spread out
- Approach this gently—pause if any memories feel overwhelming
Flow of the Practice
1. Draw the Line (5–10 minutes)
- Draw a horizontal line across the page
- Mark a starting point (birth or an early memory) and “now” at the other end
2. Add Chapters and Moments (30–45 minutes)
- Note major moves, school changes, relationships, jobs, losses, and joys
- Use colors or symbols for different themes (family, work, health, creativity)
- Let the timeline be messy and incomplete—it’s just a snapshot
3. Reflect (10–20 minutes)
- Step back and notice what stands out: crowded seasons, quiet stretches
- Jot down a few observations: “I can see…,” “I’m surprised that…,” “I’m proud that…”
Variations & Ideas
- Future segment: Extend the line beyond “now” and leave space for what comes next.
- Shared mapping: Do this alongside a friend or partner and compare reflections.
- Focused timeline: Create separate timelines for specific domains (career, relationships, creative life).