Why we should celebrate entering new ‘eras’ of our own

When we look back on our lives, we tend to identify certain chapters.

But these don’t have to be dictated by age – or even external factors (like a new job or a move). They can be much more personal.

‘We don’t remain static for the rest of our lives. Instead, we tend to experience ‘eras’,” explains Hannah Martin, a psychotherapist and founder of Talented Ladies Club.

“When we’re young, these eras are more pronounced: kindergarten, elementary school, high school, and college. Each era will define a new us as we grow up, move our physical location, learn new things and befriend new people.

But that doesn’t mean these changing eras stop when we leave education. As adults, eras are usually defined by outside influences: jobs, the places we live, the people we spend time with, romantic relationships, the stages of our children’s lives, and the activities we do.

‘But eras can also be more internally driven. For example, through the menopause, losing weight and getting fit, or a phase of great personal growth.’

It could be a turning point you’ve reached in therapy, finally finding “yourself” after a breakup, or overcoming a previous fear you’ve experienced.

And experts say it’s important to highlight these personal and psychological chapters.

They shed light on why we should celebrate stepping into these new eras of ourselves—and remind us why it’s important.

A recognition of personal power

“By celebrating the move into a new era of our own, we recognize our journey through life and personal growth,” says Hannah.

“It also diverts our attention from regrets and things that may not have gone as we hoped, and instead we look forward, as we appreciate the gifts our experience will give us.”

To celebrate a new era, Hannah says it’s important to take time for reflection.

This might be looking back at the ‘old’ you – maybe even literally looking at old photos and recognizing that this is a different person.

Hannah adds, “Think about this person and the decisions they made then, and the consequences of those choices. Acknowledge that they were just trying their best, and how different you are and how you feel right now.

“Remember how you’ve grown and changed and thank the old you that paved the way for who you are today.”

A chance to give ourselves credit

Psychologist and psychotherapist Nova Cobban explains that celebrating new eras is a way for our minds to positively acknowledge the changes and, in some cases, massive transformations that we have experienced.

As a result, it’s a great opportunity to give ourselves credit where it’s due.

“It’s too easy to run through life without noticing how much has already been done and accomplished,” she says.

“Taking the time to reflect on each ‘age’ of our lives allows us to change the way we see ourselves and challenge some of the outdated beliefs we hold.”

It’s also a good way to determine if you’ve made it through something challenging and come out the other way.