Managing nostalgia (Part Two)

On the surface, nostalgia seems all well and good, but I see it also as a double-edged sword that can soothe me as well as hurt me if I’m not careful. Today, we’ll explore how we can get the best of it, without getting depressed if we let it pull us down. 

While it can bring us comfort, joy, and a sense of connection, without control, it can lead to yearning, sadness, and even contribute to depressive feelings, especially if and when we have specific reasons to be discontent with the present. 

To get the best out of nostalgia without getting depressed, I try to have a measured, mindful engagement with my memories by focusing on their constructive attributes to make me appreciate the present and hope for the future. Specifically, I try to zero-in on its "sweet" side while gently being aware of its "bitterness" that clearly belongs to the past.

I also make a conscious effort to not let it “eat up” my time, instead, I always move quickly to another subject in the present. My goal is not to deny the past, but to appreciate it for what it was. I also use it to reflect on the many challenges I’ve overcome, the skills I learned, or the growth I’ve experienced during those nostalgic times. 

For the most part nostalgia has strengthened my sense of self and continuity. I’ve made it part of my core values as well as my achievements and the person I've become. Another way not to get over-influenced by nostalgia, as sweet as it may feel, is to actively engage in creating new, positive memories in the present. Like trying new hobbies, visiting new places and meeting new people. 

By actively managing how I engage with my memories, focusing on their inspiring and connecting power, and ensuring that I remain anchored in the present, I’m able to draw the best out of nostalgia and insert it into a rich and meaningful life.