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  • About
  • Coaching
    • Life coaching
    • Business Coaching
    • Leadership Coaching
    • Half-day coaching intensive
  • Workshops
    • Compassionate Conversations
    • Write Your Life Stories Workshops
    • The Confidence Course
    • Free Monday Talk & Meditation
  • Speaking
  • Retreat
  • Resources
    • Kate’s books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • 0 items

Write your stories, discover yourself

Write your life stories, two pages at a time

Join Kate as she facilitates the engaging Guided Autobiography method to help you uncover and make sense of your life stories.

This research-backed approach will help you to explore your life stories using themed writing prompts and small group sharing, giving you a deeper understanding of your personal journey.

This is a program that will improve your self-awareness, give you insight into who you are and open renewed perspectives about your life experiences. Awaken your innate creativity and reconnect with memories in a meaningful and therapeutic way. In these classes you’ll be introduced to authentic conversation, thought-provoking questions, helpful writing techniques, inspiring videos, and easy writing exercises.

Each week we’ll explore a simple theme such as life branches, your life’s work, family, health etc. The topics will help you approach your personal stories with a renewed sense of openness and curiosity. Through the writing process, you’ll discover new insights as you craft a series of stories that are entirely your own.

No previous writing experience required – everyone is welcome.

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Older woman writing a life story on a green typewriter in front of bookcases.

“Stories change lives; stories save lives.
They crack open hearts, they open minds.”

Brian Doyle

Woman writing her life story

In these workshops you will:

  • Reconnect with yourself through intuitive, theme-focused writing that helps navigate life’s transitions and pivotal moments.
  • Achieve greater clarity and fresh perspectives as you reflect on your journey.
  • Reawaken hidden talents and dreams.
  • Rediscover your life purpose.
  • Find inspiration from expressing your story through the art of storytelling.
  • Enjoy the process of connecting with others and exchanging stories within a nurturing and supportive environment.
  • Create a meaningful collection of life stories to share with those you love.

“We write to taste life twice,
in the moment and in retrospect.”
Anaïs Nin

write-your-story-2

Who are these workshops for?

Everyone is welcome to join the life story series and you don’t need any writing experience to benefit. The goal is not to write an autobiography (although you might find that the process inspires you to continue writing) but rather, to connect you with your own life experience.

Typically, Kate works with people who share some of the following qualities.

  • You might describe yourself as someone who thinks deeply.
  • You’re curious and open-minded.
  • You love the idea of exploring your creativity.
  • You have an interest in knowing yourself more authentically.
  • You enjoy reading and listening to other people’s stories.
  • You’re a kind and compassionate human being.
  • You want to explore how to view your life with greater meaning.
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Upcoming workshops

INTRO TO LIFE STORIES

Join Kate for this introductory workshop where she’ll introduce the life stories writing process and its unique benefits.

– the benefits of writing your life stories
– how this process is accessible to everyone (including those with no writing experience)
– how to use prompts for your writing
– participate in engaging writing exercises
– make meaningful connections

Date:  Saturday 19 July 2025
Time: 9.30am – 10.30am AEST
Where: Online via Zoom
Fee: Free

BOOKINGS CLOSED

ONLINE LIFE STORY SERIES

Join Kate for this four-week online course where you will write and share the things that shaped you. Kate will introduce the life stories writing process and each participant will have the opportunity to share a story briefly in a safe setting.

– introduction to prompts for your writing
– participate in engaging writing exercises
– make meaningful connections
– share your story in a small group setting

Commences: Saturday 16 August 2025
Time: 9.30am – 11.00am AEST
Where: Online via Zoom
Cost: $195 AUD

BOOKINGS CLOSED

1:1 LIFE STORY SESSIONS

Join Kate for a 1:1 session where you will learn how to write and share your stories. Kate will introduce the life stories writing process then you may like to share your stories with her in a future session.

– introduction to prompts for your writing
– participate in engaging writing exercises
– share your stories in a safe and supportive setting

Commences: At your convenience
Time: TBC
Venue: Online or in-person (Mornington Peninsula)
Cost: $275 for 60-minutes

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THE GIFTS OF LIFE STORY WRITING

Ignite personal growth – Deepen your self-awareness and embrace who you are with greater compassion.

Stimulate your mind – Keep your brain active and engaged through intentional, reflective writing.

Strengthen connections across generations – Document family stories that carry meaning and legacy.

Foster community and belonging – Share your journey in a space that welcomes honesty and care.

Discover your inner landscape – Uncover recurring themes and life-shaping moments.

Cultivate emotional clarity – Use writing as a tool to release stress and process your thoughts.

Find your voice through storytelling – Develop the confidence and skill to communicate your lived experiences.

JOIN THE COURSE NOW

Kate-James-2020 crop

Kate James

Kate James is the author of Quietly Confident, and a coach and mindfulness teacher. For over 23 years, she has supported introverted women build self-belief.

She describes her own experience as a participant of Guided Autobiography as life-changing. “I learned so much about myself and found the process both healing and life-affirming.”

Participants say Kate is an authentic, warm and down-to-earth workshop leader.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT GUIDED AUTOBIOGRAPHY

“This course has been life-changing. It came at the most perfect time for me and has been the highlight of my week. I’m going to miss it so much!”

Karen

“Guided Autobiography is such a brilliant format to help people understand and make sense of their stories. It was also a wonderful way to get to know others and learn from their experiences.”

Ellie

“Most weeks I found myself thinking, ‘what am I going to write about?’ but by the time I’d been in front of the laptop for ten minutes, the words just poured out of me. I didn’t know I had these stories inside me!”  
Sandy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to attend the full series?

It is recommended that you join all of the workshops but sometimes it’s inevitable that you need to miss one. For online courses, we’ll share a recording and for both online and in-person workshops, we’ll share everyone’s stories via email so you don’t miss any content.

How are the workshops run?

Each session includes engaging activities, discussion, and reading a section of your story in a safe, supportive small group setting.

How much writing is required?

Each week, you’ll write on the set theme in your own time between sessions. The aim is to write between 500 and 1,000 words, though you’re welcome to write more if you feel inspired. During the next live session, you’ll share a maximum of 1000 words within a small, supportive group. This ensures everyone has time to participate while still encouraging depth in your writing.

Will I receive feedback on my writing?

Feedback takes place in small groups during the live sessions and is designed to be uplifting and supportive. The focus is on encouraging your creative process rather than critiquing style or grammar. It’s all about your story so authenticity matters more than perfection.

Do I need any writing experience?

Not at all. This course is suitable for everyone. The focus is not on the quality of your writing, your grammar or spelling. It’s simply about sharing your story in your own words.

What technology do I need to use?

You will need:

  • A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera and microphone for Zoom sessions.

  • A reliable internet connection to join live sessions and access course materials.

  • An email address for all workshops, as course materials will be emailed.

  • The ability to write and send your story via email as a PDF or Word attachment.

What is your refund policy?

Unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds or credits once the program has started but if you withdraw from the program within 7 days of commencing, we’ll happily offer a full refund.

Have a question?

If there’s something we haven’t answered, please reach out. We would love to hear from you.

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I read a beautiful article last week about the concept of fragility, and how it applies in just about every area of life. I know this is true, but it also reminded me that when we're willing to accept our vulnerability, we come to discover our true strength.The way we keep showing up through moments of uncertainty.The way we stay open to love when we've been deeply hurt.The way we adapt when life throws us a curve ball.The way we stay hopeful, even when we're afraid.The way we find meaning in the smallest of moments.Fragility isn’t weakness. It’s part of what it means to be fully alive.When we recognise it, we learn to handle ourselves and one another with more care.To cherish what matters and to stay open to the life that we're living.✨#vulnerability #fragility #innerstrength #tenderness #selfcompassion #mindfulliving #emotionalwellbeing #personalgrowth #slowliving #healingjourney #beinghuman
I've just finished listening to the audio version of Jacinda Ardern's book, A Different Kind of Power. What a beautiful book – and what a beautiful woman.For decades, I've looked for role models to show me how to be both a mother and a businesswoman, and I've struggled to find someone I can truly relate to. Until I heard Jacinda's story.As she writes in one of the final chapters, when asked about what it means to be a leader:“If you have impostor syndrome, or question yourself, channel that. It will help you. You will read more, seek out advice, and humble yourself to situations that require humility to be conquered. If you’re anxious, and overthink everything, if you can imagine the worst-case scenario always, channel that too. It will mean you are ready when the most challenging days arrive. And if you are thin-skinned and sensitive, if criticism cuts you in two, that is not weakness; it’s empathy. In fact, all of the traits that you believe are your flaws will come to be your strengths. The things you thought would cripple you will in fact make you stronger, make you better. They will give you a different kind of power, and make you a leader that this world, with all its turmoil, might just need.”This book is a brilliant read. I highly recommend it. Thank you @jacindaardern for sharing your story with such warmth, humility and kindness. ✨Image: @penguinbooksnz#jacindaardern #adifferentkindofpower #leadership #empathy #womeninleadership #kindness #audiobookrecommendation #personalgrowth #mindfulleadership #inspiringwomen
After writing the first article about overfunctioning, so many women have reached out to say, ‘this is me’ and ‘what can I do about it?’.Later this week, I’ll be sharing an article about breaking the cycle of overfunctioning, but first, I thought it might be helpful to remember why we do this and why it can be such a hard pattern to break.Scroll through the carousel for quick tips, or read the full article (the link’s in my bio). And keep an eye out for the new article later this week where I’ll share more about doing things differently.This is something I’m working on myself, and I have to say that even with awareness, I don't find it easy. Those long-held habits can be hard to shift but when I can catch myself and go a little more gently, it makes the world of difference to how I'm feeling. ✨#overfunctioning #personaldevelopment #mindfulcoaching #selfkindness #selfawareness #wellbeingjourney #womenwhothinkdeeply #innergrowth #mindfulnessmatters #doinglessfeelingmore #confidencecoachmelbourne
When I was taught to meditate, over thirty years ago now, the advice was very rigid. You had to practice twenty minutes, twice a day or you might as well forget it. For so many people who learned, this ended up being off-putting and often not realistic.These days, there are so many different approaches and it's much more flexible – which is exactly what we need.Almost everyone I work with is short of time, but they're still keen to be mindful. And the reality is, you can achieve this even in just a few minutes.In its simplest form, mindfulness is really about two things – paying attention and non-judgement. When you start there, you realise you can practice in so many small ways and the impact can still be incredible.You don't need to head off on retreat (although it is pretty amazing) or block out huge amounts of time to simply tune in and pay attention.Try one or more of these small pauses today:▫️ Drink your tea, coffee or water with your full attention. Slow it right down and notice what you taste, smell and feel – bringing a sense of appreciation.▫️ Take five long, slow breaths. Pay attention to extending your out-breath to engage your parasympathetic nervous system.▫️ Before you send an email or make a call, pause and think about your intention. What matters most in this interaction?▫️ When you're at your computer or using your phone, notice your breathing. It often becomes more shallow (or we hold our breath without realising).Small moments of mindfulness really do make a difference. A few simple pauses through your day can bring you back to calm, clarity and presence. 🙏#mindfulness #presence #selfawareness #mindfulliving #mindfulnessretreat
I’ve been thinking a lot about boundaries lately, mostly after chatting with my wise and insightful daughter, Meg and my wonderful colleague, Catherine. Both of these women know all about setting healthy boundaries. I still find it difficult at times, even though I'm aware how deeply this affects the way that I feel.Healthy boundaries aren’t walls that keep people out. They’re more like an inner framework that helps us stay true to ourselves while staying open to others.When our boundaries are clear and flexible, we can be giving and loving, and we can listen without feeling drained or resentful. When they’re blurred, we can feel overextended, irritable, and even anxious, not because others are asking too much of us, but because we’re not honouring our own limits and needs.If you’re wondering whether your boundaries are healthy, reflect on these questions this week. If you find yourself answering 'yes' to several, consider where you can be a little more true to yourself.✨ Do I say yes when I really mean no?✨ Do I feel guilty when I take time for myself?✨ Do I often feel responsible for other people’s feelings?✨ Do I worry about expressing my own needs and preferences?✨ After spending time with certain people, do I feel somewhat depleted?Healthy boundaries come from a place of self-respect. They’re not about shutting the world out, but about creating the conditions where connection feels safe, sustainable and uplifting.Like anything, our boundaries need care and attention. They can shift as we grow and change. They can strengthen as our self-respect deepens.Working on your boundaries isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about noticing when you feel out of balance, pausing to listen, and making small, honest adjustments that bring you back into alignment. 💛#leadershipgrowth #healthyboundaries #womeninleadership #personaldevelopment #emotionalintelligence #mindfulleadership #selfawareness #confidentleaders
Yesterday I stumbled across some photos from the launch of my first book, Believe in Yourself & Do What You Love, held just over a decade ago. I’d forgotten how magical it was – the celebration of a lifelong dream to become a published author.It got me thinking about how so many of us, introverts in particular, rarely reflect on our best moments. The strength of humility is wonderful, but we can overuse it at times.As I flicked through the photos I remembered the joy of that night and how meaningful it was to share it with so many of my favourite people.So here’s an invitation for you this week. Scroll through old photos, glance back at your CV or spend some time reflecting and see if you can recall a moment you feel genuinely proud of (it doesn't need to be a big thing). And then, rather than keeping it private, share it with someone you trust. Let them know how it felt and allow yourself to re-celebrate. If it feels right, you might even share it more widely – perhaps in a post of your own.A big thank you to everyone who joined me on that fabulous night including my beautiful Meg, @ramaekerskaren, @enaproducts, @thewellbeingcorner, @lbeavan, @sarah.rudledge, @denu_australia, @lizzycphoto, @thegaleriefitzroy and many others I don't have photos of including @naids, @mindfulinmay, @ofkin, @christinaredlich, @louise_weigall, @linda.salo, @simbeever, @theholisticingredient, @corporatechillout, and anyone else I have missed. Special thanks to the gorgeous Sarah from @babylonflowers for making the tables look so stunning and to Emma Murray for the great photos. 🌸#reflection #celebrateyourself #introvertstrengths #joyfulmoments #selfkindness #confidencecoach #womenwhowrite #lifecoachmelbourne #believeinyourself
I’ve been exploring the theme of ‘not good enough’ for a while now, and the more I research, the more I see how deeply it touches every aspect of our lives. It doesn’t just shape the way we see ourselves – it influences our career, health, relationships, friendships, even the way we handle money.I’ll share more on my latest findings in next week’s article but for now, I want to leave you with this beautiful reminder from Hafiz.If you’re doubting yourself, comparing yourself to others, or feeling like you’re falling short in some way, keep these words close this week and remind yourself that you are valuable, loveable, and entirely unique – not because of what you have, how you look or what you achieve, but simply for being yourself. ✨#selfworth #selfkindness #innerlight #confidencecoach #healingjourney #mindsetmatters #notgoodenough #selfacceptance #gentlegrowth #personaldevelopment
I've had so many lovely responses to my recent articles about the four patterns of not feeling good enough and the signs of overfunctioning. It seems that this one is a common pattern for many of us.This week, I've written about why we overfunction and why it can be difficult to change –even when we know we're doing it. These behaviours often feel hard-wired into our being.If this sounds familiar, you might like to read my latest piece (links to all three articles are in my bio). I share the hidden pay-offs and the costs we often overlook, along with journal prompts to help you explore how and why overfunctioning might be showing up in your life.Over the coming weeks, I’ll write about how to transform overfunctioning, as well as exploring the other patterns of avoidance, procrastination and people-pleasing.#overfunctioning #selfdoubt #confidenceforwomen #notgoodenough #journalling #personaldevelopment #womenandwork
Just over a month ago, Chris and I had to move out of our house while it was being repaired from flood damage, so we decided to take a little road trip. We drove across to Mallacoota, up the south coast of NSW, across to Canberra, and back down through the mountains.Usually, in the middle of winter, if we were planning a trip we’d head somewhere warm. This time, we chose the opposite and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful holidays we’ve had.I think it helped that we stopped in so many places where we could immerse ourselves in nature, but I’m also aware that we expected very little. It was a simple trip with lots of home cooking, slow days, and finding delight in small things. When the days were sunny, we were grateful; when it turned cold, we were ready for it.It has me reflecting on how good it feels to do things differently, to challenge the ways we get set in our thinking. Because we loved this trip so much, I came home planning to repeat the same route next year. Then I realised I was missing the point – what made it special wasn’t the path we took, but all the things that were so unexpected.Sometimes real magic unfolds when we change our habits, let go of expectations, and allow ourselves to be a little more adventurous.An invitation for this week: where could you be more curious or open, or let go of one of your usual patterns? ✨📷 @chrisjamesphotos#innercalm #quietconfidence #mindfulleadership #wellbeingjourney #authenticliving #gentlewisdom #selfacceptance #findingpeace #womenempowerment #innerstrength #emotionalwellbeing
© Kate James 2025

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands we live and work on, the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

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