Sometimes, we look back at a previous version of ourselves and feel judgment or even resentment bubbling up. Dark thoughts arise—questions like, “How could I have…?” or “Why didn’t I see…?”

I’ve been there. I’ve done that. And it’s completely understandable. Instead of trying to suppress or ignore these thoughts, allow them to exist. Then, shift your perspective—feel grateful that you’re more aware now than you were then.

Growth isn’t about becoming a better person or leaving behind a worse version of yourself. For me, it’s about discovering new ways of seeing my life and the world around me. Sometimes, that means shedding old beliefs, patterns, or habits—not because they were wrong, but because they’ve simply outlived their purpose. Letting go creates space for something new.

So be gentle with yourself—all versions of you that have ever existed. At your core, you have always been, and will always be, the same person. You’re just uncovering new ways of experiencing yourself.