Reciscovering You: Embracing the Forgotten Parts
Life is loud. It’s a constant symphony of deadlines, responsibilities, and the never-ending drumbeat of “what’s next.” In the chaos, it’s easy to sideline parts of yourself—those quiet, tender pieces that don’t shout for attention. Maybe it’s the creative spark that once lit up your days. Or the intuitive voice that whispered truths you’ve ignored.
Whatever it is, consider this your gentle nudge: take a few moments to pause and notice a part of yourself you’ve set aside. Not to fix it or turn it into another item on your to-do list. Just to welcome it back, no strings attached.
The Forgotten Pieces of You
We all do it. We sideline parts of ourselves in the name of productivity, practicality, or even survival. That wild imagination you had as a kid? It got replaced by “real-world responsibilities,” overlooked by triumphs and mistakes. Perhaps some of your best was obscured by limiting beliefs, illusionary fears. That adventurous spirit that once dreamed of traveling the world? Shelved for “when the timing’s better.”
Over time, these neglected pieces grow quiet, almost invisible. But they’re still there, waiting patiently for you to remember them. And when you do, something magical happens.
- They Remind You of Joy. Those sidelined parts are often the source of your purest happiness.
- They Reignite Your Spark. Creativity, curiosity, and self-expression are powerful forces for renewal.
- They Make You Whole. Each piece of you adds depth and richness to your life. Ignoring them leaves you feeling incomplete.
Welcoming Back What You’ve Forgotten
Reconnecting with yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the simpler, the better. Here’s how to start:
- Take a Moment to Reflect
Ask yourself: What part of me have I sidelined? Is it the artist, the dreamer, the adventurer, the quiet observer? Let your mind wander without judgment. - Welcome It Without Expectations
Don’t turn this into another project. You’re not trying to revive a career as a painter or become a world traveler overnight. Just sit with that piece of yourself. Let it remind you what it brings to your life. - Listen to What It Needs
Maybe it’s a few minutes of doodling. Or a solo walk in the park. Or the freedom to say “no” and honor your intuition. Whatever it is, let it guide you, gently and naturally.
Being True to Yourself Isn’t a Finish Line
Here’s the thing: you don’t have to “fix” yourself. You don’t have to turn every forgotten piece into a polished masterpiece. Being true to yourself isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about accepting everything you already are.
When you let go of the pressure to be perfect, you create space to simply be. To honor the messy, beautiful, complex puzzle that makes you you.
What Happens When You Embrace Yourself
Reconnecting with these sidelined parts isn’t just an exercise in self-awareness—it’s a life-changer.
- You Feel More Alive. Those forgotten pieces are often the source of your passion and creativity.
- You Build Deeper Connections. When you embrace yourself fully, you show up more authentically in your relationships.
- You Find Peace. Accepting yourself as you are—flaws, quirks, and all—brings a profound sense of freedom.
Start Today
Take a few minutes today to notice a part of yourself you’ve sidelined. Maybe it’s that playful side that loves to dance in the kitchen or the writer in you that’s been yearning to fill a blank page. Whatever it is, welcome it back. Let it remind you of the joy it once brought—and can bring again.
Remember, you don’t need to have everything figured out to be true to yourself. You just need to show up, piece by piece, exactly as you are.
Because the real magic of life? It’s already within you, waiting to be rediscovered.
Bob Fagan has just published “The Little Book of Questions That Matter — A Lifetime Companion For Transforming Your Life.” It is available on Amazon. All sales through 2025 will be donated to charity.
