The "Childhood Self"

 

What it is: Have an imaginary conversation with your 8-year-old self about who you are today. Picture that child, curious, unfiltered, and full of dreams, and tell them about your current life. Then listen to what they might say back. You'll be surprised how different their perspective is from your inner critic.

Example scenarios:

Your 8-year-old self learning you have your own apartment and can eat ice cream for dinner sometimes → "Wait, you can do whatever you want whenever you want?" Telling them about your job struggles → "But you get PAID to do stuff? And you know how to drive? That's so cool!" Sharing your relationship worries → "You found someone who wants to hang out with you every day? Like a permanent best friend?" Explaining your body insecurities → "Your body can do all that stuff? It sounds really strong and useful." Describing your financial stress → "You have your own money and make your own choices? You're like the boss of your whole life!"

Why it works: Children judge success differently than adults do. They're impressed by independence, kindness, and basic life skills we take for granted. Your 8-year-old self had different priorities and would celebrate things about you that adult-you dismisses.

Try this: Find a photo of yourself around age 8. Look at that kid's face, then have a real conversation out loud (or write it down). Tell them about your day, your worries, and your accomplishments. What questions would they ask? What would they think was amazing about your life?

Therapist insight: Children naturally focus on effort and growth rather than perfection. When adults reconnect with their childhood perspective, they often rediscover a sense of wonder about their own resilience and capabilities that gets buried under adult expectations.

Reframe this week: Instead of "I haven't accomplished enough," → "8-year-old me would be amazed at everything I've figured out and survived."

Celebrate this: That kid believed in you completely. They still live inside you somewhere, cheering you on. You've become exactly the kind of grown-up they hoped you'd be: someone who cares, tries hard, and keeps going even when things get tough.