You ever do this? Fall back into a past life you had only to start missing it and wishing you had it back? I do this at least 3x a week. I remember how easy life was 15 years ago. How skinny I was. How my responsibilities were less.
And I bet you in 10 years, I’m going to think the same thing as I do about this exact time period in my life.
So why do we think the past was better? Was it actually better or do we just make ourselves believe it?
I lived with three girls in college and shared a room. I had a twin bed, Walmart desk and that was a hell of a lot worse than now. So why do I wish for those days back?
While it was a much simpler time in my life, it wasn’t any easier. I was making $9 an hour trying to put myself through college and failing algebra 101 for the second time. But somehow, I have in my mind how wonderful it was. And maybe certain parts were. My college roommate passed away a few years ago. And maybe that’s why I wish I would do anything to have those years back with her. I was also in an abusive relationship. But I don’t even think about that when I think back on how wonderful every other part of my life was. So maybe we do highlight the good and erase the bad to make the situation seem that much more enjoyable than the current?
Nowadays, when I’m falling into this trap, I take the time to understand why I feel like the past was so much better? Really examine it to see if it was in fact, better, or is life right now just at a difficult stage and will get easier with time?
The last few years, no matter what circumstance, I try and take a step back. Remembering all the great things going for me right then and how I feel in the moment. I put my phone down and have conversations. I’ll always have my phone. I won’t have the people in my life forever.
I think when we age, we also have more time to slow down and reflect on the things that got us to that point. When we are in our 20’s and early 30’s we are in this rat race to try and accomplish all these ideals we had in our heads for so long growing up. Once we start to check things off that imaginary list, we begin to have time to slow down and realize we didn’t stop and enjoy the ride. We were too busy getting to our destination.
Sadly, I feel like I realized that much too late in life. And maybe most people do. We see this everyday. People with their phones out instead of watching the concert, having the conversation, or enjoying the day.
While it’s a hard habit to crack, I’m taking those steps to enjoying life unplugged. Getting outside more, visiting with family and friends, and making an effort to enjoy the moment while I’m living it.
Because in 10 years from now, I want to remember the good times. But know in the back of my mind, I’m able to make even better memories. And that each phase of my life, just adds a chapter to an ever evolving adventure book.
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