New Perspective from Experiences

It's natural to look back at things you did in the past and realize that you wouldn't make the same choices today. Perhaps you made decisions that, with the wisdom you now have, you would avoid. This isn't being inconsistent or "two-faced"—it’s simply part of growing and evolving. Recognizing where change is needed is a sign of progress and self-awareness, and it provides an opportunity to help others by sharing what you’ve learned.

Growth Means Recognizing What’s No Longer Right

The decisions you made in the past came from your previous experiences, and they may have seemed right at the time. However, growth is a core component of human development. As we gain new perspectives, we often find that some things we did no longer align with who we are today. It’s not something to feel bad about, but rather a sign that you’re moving closer to your higher self and strengthening your understanding of what truly matters.

When we realize that certain actions or beliefs from our past are no longer beneficial, we have the chance to adjust our behavior. Change happens in multiple contexts, and our personal growth reflects that. Be proud of your ability to recognize what isn’t working and use that knowledge to promote better choices, both for yourself and others.

Be Grateful for the Lessons Learned

One of the keys to personal growth is gratitude. When you look back and see how much you’ve grown, it’s important to focus on the lessons those past experiences have taught you. Asking yourself, “How can I be more grateful and positive?” helps shift your perspective toward what you’ve gained rather than dwelling on mistakes.

Using grateful prompts in your journal can help you reflect on these moments of growth. Writing down things you are grateful for, including the lessons from past mistakes, makes you more attuned to your progress and helps you develop greater self-compassion. Some people also find inspiration in creating a strength confidant guide—a personal reflection tool to remind yourself of your growth and inner strength.

Sharing Your Growth with Others

Not only does recognizing change benefit you, but it also allows you to help others. When we learn that something we did isn’t the best course of action, we are in a position to advise others who might be facing similar choices. Sharing your subjective experience can provide them with valuable insights and, possibly, save them from making similar missteps.

Focusing on your personal strength can help you offer guidance from a place of authenticity and understanding. It’s not about perfection—it’s about recognizing where change is needed and being honest enough to admit it. Your willingness to grow and evolve serves as a model for others.

Related: The Gift of Giving Back

How to Acknowledge Growth

One way to actively practice self-reflection is to create a manifest list where you acknowledge moments from your past that no longer align with your values today. This isn’t meant to criticize your past self, but rather to highlight how far you’ve come.

Additionally, make time for grateful prompts—simple statements that express appreciation for how you’ve grown :

• “I’m grateful for realizing that this action no longer serves me.”
• “I’m thankful for the strength to change.”
• “I appreciate the lessons my past choices have taught me.”

Related: The Guided Gratitude Journal

Realizing Growth is a Strength

Growth isn’t about always getting things right from the beginning. It’s about learning, recognizing when change is needed, and having the courage to evolve. What you once thought was right might not fit your values today, and that’s a good thing—it shows you’re growing. Be grateful for the lessons your past has offered and use those insights to guide yourself and others toward a more thoughtful and positive way of being.

Related: You’re Not Defined by Your Past