It’s easy to get stuck dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. These negative thought patterns can leave you feeling anxious, depressed, and out of control. Recently, my podcast co-host Zach and I realized firsthand how taking a trip down memory lane can provide perspective to pull us out of funks.
In a vulnerable episode of The Fit Mess, I shared about watching my daughter’s first competitive volleyball game. Seeing today’s confident middle schoolers transported me back to my own awkward tween years. I was very insecure back then. Now here I was, a proud father watching his thriving girl compete surrounded by friends.
Zach's Nostalgic Baseball Card Discovery
Meanwhile, Zach was cleaning out his basement when he uncovered a forgotten box of childhood baseball cards. Looking through these cards brought up painful memories of loneliness and trauma from that time. But it also flooded him with gratitude for the man he had become despite those early struggles.
Reflection Builds Motivation and Perspective
Both of our nostalgic experiences illuminated just how harshly we judge ourselves for perceived mistakes and weaknesses day-to-day. Taking time to appreciate how far we’ve come built our motivation to keep improving. It also helped us combat the tendency to fixate on daily stressors.
Acknowledging the Progress Made Since Childhood
We realized that healing from trauma takes time, but progress comes through persistently taking small steps forward. And we felt so grateful that the hurting boys we once were grew into men capable of thriving today.
Look Back with Compassion on Your Resilience
When you’re stuck in negative thought patterns, look back with compassion on all you have overcome. Be proud of your inner child, and thank both your past and present self for their resilience. With reflection, nostalgia can illuminate how even pain led to the gifts in your life now.
For more on using gratitude to address mental health struggles, check out our podcast www.thefitmess.com/220. We hope our stories inspire you to appreciate your own growth. You deserve to acknowledge how far you’ve come.
