Do you ever find yourself longing for the good old days? Maybe you miss the carefree nature of your childhood, the excitement of your teenage years, or the sense of wonder you had in your early adulthood.

It’s natural to feel nostalgic and wonder what life would be like if you could go back and reconnect with your former self. While time travel may not be possible, there is a way to tap into the essence of who you once were. By asking yourself five key questions, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery and reconnect with your former self.

1. What Were Your Passions and Interests?

Think back to the things you loved to do as a child or a teenager.

Were you passionate about art, sports, music, or writing? Did you have any hobbies or activities that brought you joy? Reconnecting with your former self means rediscovering those passions and integrating them into your current life. Whether it’s picking up a paintbrush again, joining a local sports team, or dedicating time to writing, indulging in activities that once made your heart sing can bring a sense of fulfillment back into your life.

2. What Were Your Dreams and Aspirations?

As children and young adults, we often dream big. We imagine incredible futures for ourselves and set ambitious goals. However, as life happens, we may lose sight of those dreams and settle for less.

Take some time to reflect on what your dreams and aspirations were when you were younger. Did you want to become a famous actor, an entrepreneur, or a globetrotter? Revisiting those dreams can help you realign your goals and pursue a life that’s more in line with your authentic self.

3. What Were Your Values and Beliefs?

Our values and beliefs shape who we are. As we evolve, our values may change, but it’s essential to understand what truly mattered to us in the past.

Did you have strong convictions about justice, equality, or the environment? Were you deeply connected to your spirituality or religious beliefs? By exploring your former self’s values and beliefs, you can gain clarity on what still resonates with you and make conscious choices that align with your core principles.

4. What Were Your Strengths and Talents?

Each of us possesses unique strengths and talents that may lie dormant as we navigate through life. Take a moment to consider the skills or abilities that set you apart when you were younger.

Were you a great problem solver, a talented musician, or a natural leader? Reconnecting with your former self means tapping into those strengths and allowing them to shine again. Whether it’s seeking opportunities to lead a project, participating in a local music group, or using your problem-solving skills to help others, embracing your strengths can bring a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment.

5. What Were Your Relationships and Connections?

Think about the relationships and connections you had when you were younger.

Were you close to your family, had a tight-knit group of friends, or a romantic partner who brought out the best in you? Relationships play a vital role in our lives, and reconnecting with our former self means rekindling those meaningful connections. Reach out to old friends, spend quality time with your loved ones, and foster new friendships that align with the values and interests that once defined you.

Reconnecting with your former self doesn’t mean abandoning who you are now. It’s about acknowledging the person you once were, the dreams you had, and the aspects of yourself that may have been buried along the way.

Embracing your former self can bring a renewed sense of purpose, happiness, and authenticity to your life. So take some time to reflect, answer these five questions, and embark on a journey of self-discovery that will help you get in touch with your former self.