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When Flashbacks Make You Cringe... And Smile (Ep. 25)
Manage episode 479037912 series 3609599
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Ever find yourself looking at an old photo or hearing a throwback song and suddenly you're smiling... then cringing? One minute it's nostalgia, and the next you're thinking, “Why did I do that?” Been there.
In this episode, we're diving into what I like to call the “midlife memory seesaw”—that mental tipping point between warm, fuzzy memories and the sting of regret. I’m sharing some of my own stories (yes, including questionable 90s haircuts), along with brain science and practical tools that will help you shift how you think about your past. The goal? More joy, less guilt, and a lot more grace for the person you used to be.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
✔ Why our brains tend to cling to the negative—and how to gently train them to do otherwise
✔ My go-to “regret reframe” that shifts self-criticism into appreciation
✔ How writing a thank-you note to your younger self can change your perspective
✔ What positive nostalgia can do for your self-esteem and emotional well-being
🎯 OMG Moment: Looking back with joy and appreciation is power. Looking back with self-criticism is a trap—and it’s one you don’t have to fall into.
Take Action
Next time you catch yourself slipping into regret, try asking, “What good came from that moment?” or “How far have I come since then?” That one simple reframe can change everything. You deserve to look back with kindness.
Grab your free Story Cycle resource to help you recognize these emotions and the thoughts behind them at www.cherylpfischer.com/storycycle.
Why This Episode Matters
Midlife naturally brings a lot of reflection—but how we relate to our past directly shapes our peace and happiness now. I want you to see how much gold is in your story, even the messy chapters. You’ve lived a lot of life. Let’s honor that—together.
🎧 Hit follow now and join me next week as I sit down with a guest to talk about the alcohol-free movement and what it means to redefine your relationship with habits in midlife.
Find all podcast and coaching resources at cherylpfischer.com.
Chapters
1. Nostalgia vs. Regret Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Easter Memories and Empty Nest Sadness (00:03:19)
3. Avoiding the Slippery Slope to Bitterness (00:08:20)
4. Why We Dwell on Regrets (00:12:08)
5. Powerful Tools for Reframing Memories (00:17:38)
6. Finding Gold in Your Past (00:24:01)
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