It might sound unconventional, but writing a letter to your younger self can be therapeutic. There were certain things you didn’t know back then, but now you’re older, wiser, and smarter. So show yourself love to by giving your younger self a metaphorical hug. Writing a letter helps you process, dig deep and find healing.
Here’s a few ideas of what to write in a letter to your younger self.
Acknowledge Your Pain and Show Understanding
The younger version of yourself has faced hurts and pain. It’s important not to brush this off and operate from a place of denial. Your childhood trauma or abuse can impact your ability to trust, to communicate, to love and experience intimacy in adulthood. In your letter to yourself, acknowledge the pain and address these negative experiences that impacted you. Remember to show yourself grace and kindness.
Celebrate Your Childhood Self
Your younger self had dreams, goals, hobbies and interests. Reconnect with your younger self in a letter by celebrating all the unique things that make you who you are. Explore what lies inside of you and take time to reflect on what makes you who you are. Write a letter to yourself honoring those unique desires and passions.
Pinpoint the Relationships That Made an Impact
Relationships, especially in your early childhood, can make a lasting impact on your life. Write a letter about the relationships that impacted you most, for the good or the bad. Express gratitude for every relationship that taught you a lesson, even the toxic relationships. Write down what they each taught you and how they shaped who you are today.
Encourage Yourself for the Harder Days
Your younger self needs reminders that brighter times will come, even on their worst days. Encourage your younger self to keep going and to put one foot in front of the other. As you write your letter, remember the times you’ve made it through situations you didn’t think you would and gather strength for the future.