The Impact of Childhood Trauma

How do you navigate through trauma?

Here’s a tool:
→    Letter to my Younger Self

Yes, it’s a powerful exercise that will help you to:
→    understand yourself better
→    reflect on your past experiences
→    express compassion for your younger self

Are we ready?
We’re gonna follow 10 steps.

1.    Find a quiet space where you can focus without distractions.

You just need:
→    Your Wellbeing Journal
→    A calming atmosphere

2.    Now, start writing your letter.
Remember: it’s a letter for your younger self.
So start the letter by dating it.

For example:
→    “March 8, 20–”

3.   Now make sure to address your younger self.

For example:
→    “Dear Chloe at 10,”

4.    Now reflect on the experiences that led to your trauma.
There are no judgments here.
Write down your pain and struggles.

For example:
→    “I know that during those years you faced…”
→    “And I know those moments were very tough…”

5.    Now it’s time to show compassion.
Try to offer the empathy you may have needed during that time.

For example:
→    “I want you to know that I understand the emotions you felt…”
→    “It’s okay to have felt scared, angry, anxious and confused.”
→    “It’s okay to not have always felt okay, Chloe.”

6.    Now it’s time to remember your resilience.
Continue the letter by recognizing the strength you had in the period.

For example:
→    “You know what, Chloe? Despite everything I can see the unique strength within you.
→    “Do you remember that day, when you…?”
→    “You showed an incredible courage!”

7.    Now it’s time to give reassurance.
Tell your younger self that the trauma was not their fault.

For example:
→    “Please Chloe, remember this: what happened was not your fault.”
→    “You know you did your best in that situation.”

8.    Now it’s time to offer some lessons you’ve learned.

For example:
→    “One thing I’ve learned in these last few years is the importance of….”
→    “It can be really helpful when you feel…”

9.    Now the magic word is “gratitude”.
Express gratitude for the lessons you’ve learned.

For example:
→    “Chloe, I’m really grateful for the lessons learned since that moment.”
→    “I truly believe those experiences have created OUR uniqueness.”

10.    Now it’s time to close with self-love.
Just let your younger self know that they deserve love and care.

For example:
→    “Chloe, before ending this letter I want to tell you this…”
→    “You deserve love, care and positive people around you.”
→    “You’ve got everything it takes to build a positive future— starting right now.”