I am sure you've seen the current reel trend - 'coffee with my younger self'?
Well, I thought it was a cute trend and recently made my own.
The moment I started typing, I realised that it was more than a creative exercise, it was more like an emotional journey and one I wasn't really prepared for to be honest!
We don’t often stop to really reflect on how far we’ve come, do we?
Life keeps us busy,
always moving forward,
always focusing on the next goal,
always seeking the next adventure.
In between all the 'nexts', I think we forget to pause and appreciate the road we’ve traveled.
Typing that post made me confront memories I’d buried deep. It stirred up emotions I hadn’t felt in a long time, and, in some ways, it was exactly what I needed.
As I reflected on my younger self,
her struggles,
her dreams,
her doubts,
even her fears,
I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. I’ve navigated challenges I never imagined I’d face and I’ve grown in ways she couldn’t have foreseen. She wasn't even aware of the areas that needed work, never mind!
Writing that post was a gentle reminder that, even if we feel that we fall short at times, we’ve come a long way.
It reminded me to give myself more credit,
to honour my journey
and to be even more grateful for where I am today.
I actually urge you to try it! Especially if you are feeling stuck right now.
You don’t have to share it with anyone but write it for yourself.
Picture the scene.
Notice the details, from the arrival time to what you are wearing.
What would you both order?
How would it feel to meet your younger self face-to-face?
What advice would you give her, knowing what you know now?
What reassurance, wisdom, or encouragement could you offer?
It’s a chance to reflect on the path you’ve walked, to honour the struggles that shaped you, and to acknowledge the strength it took to get here.
Go for it.
You might be surprised by the emotions it unlocks!
Have a beautiful week!
Liza
xoxo