This trend has grown popular in part because it mimics our innate need to look back on the past.
Sanam Hafeez, NYC neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind.
The idea encourages us to remember happy memories while honoring who we’ve become today.
Verywell Mind / Getty Images
Emotional and Psychological Benefits
As you might expect, this exercise has a number of benefits.
Its hard to picture your younger self and be mad or disappointed in them."
She notes, “This exercise opens the door for self-forgiveness, increased self-worth, and self-compassion.”
Hafeez agrees that the exercise can lead to moreself-compassion.
Many people utilize the therapy they’ve had to be particularly soft and compassionate with their younger self.
If you’ve changed in surprising ways, your younger self may not approve.
Mine, for example, would be disappointed by my tattoos and piercings."
Lastly, this exercise could lead to discontent.
Keep in mind that similar activities have their limitations.
Try not to feel overwhelmed if it doesn’t go as perfectly as you’d hoped.
If it feels overwhelming, consider writing it out before speaking it aloud."
Be gentle with your thoughts and avoid harsh self-criticism."
Focus on your growth, not on how you haven’t led a perfect life.
“This mindset helps you see your journey as a whole, with all its ups and downs.”
However you do it, ensure you operate from a space of self-compassion.
A pilot study.Frontiers in Psychology.
2018;13(1):1441592.
