Would You Ever Go Back?
Now, there’s a question. For me, it depends on what I’m going back to. As many of you know, I did go back—big time—to my first boyfriend, and we married in 2022. But there are situations I know would only bring stress or pain, so I choose to stay away.
I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, repeating certain experiences that ultimately harmed my peace of mind. I’m sure many of you can relate. When considering going back—whether to a place, a person, or a situation—it’s important to ask: Will this benefit me? Will it bring happiness? Will I regret it later?
As a speaker, I often discuss mindfulness, resilience, and the importance of living in the present. A key part of this is acceptance—recognizing that the past is unchangeable. It is what it was meant to be. Instead of dwelling on what we cannot alter, we find peace by embracing today.
That said, revisiting the past isn’t always a bad thing. When my husband and I honeymooned in Ireland, a place I called home for three years in the early 2000s, I was flooded with wonderful memories. Though the trip wasn’t long enough, it was the perfect blend of nostalgia and new experiences.
We’ve made it a goal to revisit places that hold special meaning for me—after 22 house moves in 24 years, there are plenty! From childhood holiday spots like Skegness, York, and Aberystwyth to other cherished destinations, I want to share these experiences with my husband and create new memories along the way.
As my friend Richard Wilkins wisely says, “Use your past as a library, not a home.” Cherish the chapters that bring joy, but if a page stirs pain, it’s okay to leave it behind. The past has shaped us, but the present is where we truly live.
So, would you ever go back? And if so, are you doing it for the right reasons?
