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Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.

This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.

Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.

Read time: 10-12 minutes.

Bright Side in Brief

What’s covered this week?

• The Myth of the Good Old Days - Why our memories deceive us.

• Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.

• David Lynch - Remembering a creative visionary.

• Now Spinning - Ayo Ke Disco: Boogie, pop & funk from the South China Sea

• Insights from an Expert - Ayelet Fishbach

• A Previous Tweet - Become the author of your own story.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

• Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.

Hello Brighter Side readers! ☀️

Ever catch yourself daydreaming about simpler times, only to realise you might be overlooking the magic of now?

That’s nostalgia at work.

It’s a powerful feeling, but it can also be a bit tricky.

Our brains have a habit of romanticising the past, glossing over challenges and making us believe those days were brighter than they really were.

But here’s the thing.

While it’s lovely to reflect on fond memories, you need to be careful you don’t get yourself stuck there.

When you spend too much time longing for what was, you risk missing out on the brilliance of what is.

Life is happening right now, and today holds just as much potential for joy and meaning.

If you’re open to seeing it, that is.

So … how do we strike a balance?

By appreciating the past without letting it overshadow the present.

Stay curious about what’s in front of you and embrace the opportunities each day brings.

Nostalgia may remind us where we’ve been, but it’s our curiosity and presence that shape where we’re going.

As you reminisce try to remember the best chapters of your life are still being written and today is a blank page full of possibilities.

Wishing you all an enjoyable week ahead.

See you on the Brighter Side,

Chris

P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.

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The Myth of the Good Old Days

Why our memories deceive us

Imagine you're cruising down a scenic highway with the sun shining through the open windows.

Suddenly, a familiar song comes on the radio.

Instantly, you’re transported back to a time when life felt simpler.

Maybe it’s a summer road trip with friends with laughter echoing in the air.

Maybe it’s that first crush that made your heart race.

For a brief moment, you can almost feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and hear the carefree chatter of days gone by.

We’ve all experienced that rush of nostalgia, where a single note or lyric can unlock a treasure trove of memories.

Well, those that are old enough to (don’t come at me, toddlers!)

Last week, I experienced my own nostalgic moment when my son and I decided to play a series of early 90s video games.

It could only be described as a nostalgic splurge.

I was excited to share some of the best games from my childhood with him, eager to relive those moments and introduce him to what I remembered as classics.

But truth be told, most of those games didn’t live up to the hype.

I’d built them up in my mind over the years.

Sure, some were fun and engaging (I heart you, NBA Jam).

So it was worth a try for sure.

But many, sorry to say, paled in comparison to today’s quality and gameplay.

Why was I so off on this?

It then dawned on me that nostalgia had built these games up in such a way that it made me lie to myself about their actual quality.

It wasn’t just the games themselves I was longing for.

It was the moments I spent enjoying them with friends.

One game in particular brought back memories of late-night gaming sessions filled with laughter and friendly competition.

But when I played it again with my son, I realised that while there were still some fun elements, it felt more like comparing a classic film to today’s blockbuster hits.

Like trying to enjoy an old black-and-white movie when you’ve just seen an action-packed spectacle on the big screen (one of the good ones - I know there’s an abundance of average ones!)

The emotional connection was powerful, but the reality of the experience was starkly different.

If I could go back to that time when my friends were there with me, it would likely improve the experience tenfold.

Ultimately, it wasn’t the games I wanted; it was how they made me feel.

But while these moments can be sweet, they also come with a bittersweet sting.

Nostalgia often leads us to believe that the past was better than our present reality.

Why do we romanticise those days?

And how can we ensure that we don’t get stuck in the past while missing out on the brilliance of today?

Let’s dive into what is a fascinating phenomenon.

The Psychology Behind Nostalgia

Nostalgia isn’t just a fleeting feeling, it’s rooted in how our brains work.

Here are some key reasons why we often think the past was better:

• Selective Memory:

  Our brains are wired to remember positive experiences while conveniently forgetting the negative ones. This means that when we look back, we often see an idealised version of our past, making it seem more appealing than it was.

• Fear of Change: Known as "loss aversion," this psychological concept explains why we tend to fear losing what we have more than we value gaining something new. When faced with uncertainty in our lives, it’s easy to long for the comfort of what feels familiar. Even if that familiarity is based on an idealised past.

• Shifting Expectations: As life improves - thanks to advancements in technology, healthcare and social progress - our expectations also rise. Once we adapt to these improvements, they become our new normal, making us forget how far we've come and focus instead on what still feels lacking.

A Global Phenomenon

Nostalgia isn’t just an individual experience.

It’s a sentiment shared across cultures and countries.

For instance:

• A Pew Research Center survey found that nearly six in ten Americans believe life was better 50 years ago.

• A global poll from 2018 revealed that many people in 15 out of 27 countries thought the financial situation for average people was better two decades ago.

• In the UK, 70% of respondents felt the world was getting worse compared to less than 10% who felt it was getting better.

This longing for “the good old days” can stem from various factors such as economic challenges, political instability and rapid cultural shifts.

However, while nostalgia paints a rosy picture of the past, it’s important to recognise that life today is objectively better in many ways.

Consider this:

We have access to technology that connects us with people across the globe at the touch of a button.

We can travel to places that were once unreachable within hours instead of weeks or months.

Our understanding of health and wellness has expanded exponentially, allowing us to live longer and healthier lives.

Educational opportunities have broadened significantly; today, more people have access to higher education than ever before.

Our world is more interconnected and informed than it has ever been.

Yet many still cling to the idea that life was somehow better decades ago.

Don’t get me wrong, there are definite aspects that have retreated over the years.

The value of a dollar or the modernisation of education systems are prime examples of this.

But as a global society, life has never been better.

Staying Grounded in the Present

While nostalgia can bring you comfort and joy, it’s crucial not to let it overshadow your appreciation for the present.

Or even worse, hinder our plans for the future.

Here are some practical strategies to help you stay grounded:

1. Stay Mindful:

   Focus on what’s happening right now instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about what could be. Exercises like deep breathing or simply observing your surroundings can help you stay present.

2. Celebrate Your Progress:

   Reflect on how far you’ve come personally and how much society has advanced globally. Remind yourself that while no era is perfect, many aspects of life today are better than they’ve ever been.

3. Set Goals for Tomorrow:

   Instead of longing for yesterday, channel that energy into building a future you’re excited about. Whether it’s learning a new skill or planning an adventure, having something to look forward to keeps you moving forward.

4. Limit Nostalgic Triggers:

   While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying old songs or movies now and then, overindulging can trap you in a loop of longing for the past. Balance nostalgic media with new experiences that reflect who you are today. There are also cognitive benefits to listening to new music.

5. Connect with Others:

   Share your thoughts and feelings with friends or family who can help ground you in the present moment. Building relationships now creates memories worth cherishing later.

The Importance of Being Present

As we navigate feelings of nostalgia and longing for what once was, it's useful to remember an insightful quote from Lao Tzu:

Lao’s wisdom highlights how your emotional states can tie themselves directly to where you place your focus.

When you dwell on past regrets or future uncertainties, you miss out on fully experiencing life as it unfolds in front of you.

Embracing the present allows us to appreciate our current experiences without being weighed down by what has already happened … or what might come next.

Moving Forward

Nostalgia is part of being human.

It connects us to our past and gives us moments of joy when we reflect on where we’ve come from.

It’s ok to cherish the past and your many memories, just don’t live there.

The truth is, your past doesn’t need you.

But your future certainly does.

It’s essential to not let your reflections overshadow where you are now … or where you’re headed next.

The reality is that the world will continue moving forward and progressing whether we choose to join in or not.

Clinging too tightly to nostalgia is detrimental because it keeps you anchored in a mindset that resists change and growth.

When you focus too much on what once was, what seemed better, you risk missing out on all that life has to offer right now.

Life today may not be perfect, but newsflash, it never is.

Today’s world offers opportunities and progress that previous generations could only dream about.

More access to information than ever before, unprecedented levels of global connectivity and advancements in science and technology continue to improve our quality of life.

By always moving yourself forward, learning new things and advancing your life, you open yourself up to growth and fulfilment in ways you might never have imagined.

By understanding why nostalgia happens and taking steps to stay present, you can honour your past without losing sight of your future.

After all, every moment you live today will eventually become your “good old days.”

Make them count!

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• How many jumping jacks can you do in 60 seconds?

• How multitasking drains your brain.

• How to finally break your procrastination habit.

• Why do some people look like their dogs?

• From pinecone to pine tree, a 300-day time-lapse.

David Lynch

Remembering a Creative Visionary

Last week, we lost David Lynch.

A man whose creativity and unique perspective left an unforgettable mark on the world.

Lynch was far from just a filmmaker.

He was a storyteller, an artist and a thinker who dared to explore the uncharted corners of human experience.

His work challenged us, inspired us and often left us marvelling at his ability to blend the surreal with the deeply human.

One of my favorite Lynch quotes is:

It’s a simple reminder that captures Lynch's philosophy of focusing on the beauty and possibilities in life, rather than dwelling on negativity or what is lacking.

It’s a beautiful reminder that while challenges may arise, there is always something worthwhile to appreciate.

A concept that resonates deeply with my brand's message of positivity and resilience.

A Journey Through Creativity

Born on January 20, 1946, in Missoula, Montana, Lynch's journey into the world of art began early.

He studied painting at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston before transitioning to filmmaking.

His first feature film, Eraserhead (1977), showcased his distinctive style - a blend of surrealism, horror and dark humour that would become his signature.

Lynch's films often explore themes of duality, identity and the subconscious.

Works like Blue Velvet (1986) and Mulholland Drive (2001) invite audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about both society and themselves.

His ability to weave complex narratives with striking visuals left a lasting mark on cinema.

The Power of Imagination

One of Lynch's most profound contributions is his belief in the power of imagination.

He once said:

Encouraging individuals to tap into their creativity and envision new possibilities.

And he lived by that belief.

Whether he was crafting hauntingly beautiful visuals or exploring abstract ideas, Lynch reminded us that creativity has no limits.

His work reminds us that imagination can be a powerful tool for transformation, whether it’s within art or simply in everyday life.

But here’s something you might not know: Lynch credited much of his creative clarity to Transcendental Meditation (TM).

TM is a simple meditation technique that involves silently repeating a mantra for 20 minutes twice a day.

Unlike other forms of meditation that require intense focus or effort, TM emphasises relaxation and letting go.

Lynch discovered TM in the 1970s and practised it daily for over 40 years.

He often said it helped him access deeper levels of creativity while reducing stress and anxiety.

He was so passionate about its benefits that he founded the David Lynch Foundation, a project that promotes TM as a tool for improving mental health, especially for at-risk populations, like veterans and students.

Embracing Duality

Lynch's exploration of duality - light and dark, good and evil - challenges us to embrace all aspects of our humanity.

He believed that by acknowledging your fears and vulnerabilities, you can unlock deeper levels of understanding and creativity.

Embracing both the good and bad times in life will make you stronger and more genuine.

In his hugely successful TV series, Twin Peaks, Lynch masterfully blended elements of mystery with moments of surreal humour, demonstrating how life is often made up of different and opposing forces.

His work encourages us to look beyond surface appearances and explore the complexities that lie beneath.

A Lasting Legacy

David Lynch leaves behind a rich legacy that transcends film.

His influence can be seen in countless artists who dare to push boundaries and explore unconventional narratives.

As we honour his memory, remember his call to focus on the beauty around us - to keep our eyes on the doughnut - and find inspiration in even the most unexpected places.

In a world that often focuses on negative things or fear, Lynch's perspective gives us hope.

By embracing creativity, imagination and also duality, we can navigate life's challenges more fluidly.

Let’s carry forward Lynch's spirit by nurturing our own creative pursuits and supporting those around us in their journeys.

Keep your eyes on what inspires you - the doughnut in your life - and strive to create beauty in every moment.

Now Spinning

Ayo Ke Disco: Boogie, Pop & Funk from the South China Sea (1974-88)

By Various Artists

Turn up the volume and hit the dance floor - Ayo Ke Disco is here to bring the party straight to you.

This album is an explosion of funky grooves and infectious rhythms that will have you moving in no time.

Compiled by DJ Alice Whittington (aka Norsicaa), this collection of gems from Southeast Asia has been on repeat for me ever since I finally gave it a listen.

It’s fun, smooth and packed with so much personality that every time I put it on … I can’t help but boogie!

Key Highlights

A Snapshot of Southeast Asian Music

The album covers disco, funk and soul-infused pop from the 70s and 80s across Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and more. It’s got everything - synths, horns, traditional instruments and grooves for days.

Standout Tracks

One standout track is “Dahaga” by Fatimah Razak. Her sultry voice mixes jazz and Malaysian folk influences with a funky backing band that just pulls you in. Another favourite of mine is “Pinoy Funk” by Regalado, it blends Filipino gong chimes with bold funk rhythms. It’s impossible not to move to.

Cultural Context

What makes Ayo Ke Disco even cooler is how it reflects a time of change in Southeast Asia. These tracks were made during a period when countries were redefining their identities post-colonisation, blending their traditional sounds with Western disco and funk influences. It’s music that feels alive with energy and optimism.

My Takeaway

If you’re looking for something fresh to brighten your day give Ayo Ke Disco a spin.

If you’re looking for something fresh to get you dancing around your living room, give Ayo Ke Disco a spin.

Trust me.

You’ll be grooving in no time.

This collection is not just an album.

It’s an invitation to celebrate the joy of global music.

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen to learn from great suggestions.

Insights from an Expert

Ayelet Fishbach

The Lesson

Failure has a way of grabbing our attention like nothing else.

Ayelet Fishbach is a professor of behavioural science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Her research focuses on motivation, decision-making and how people learn from their experiences, particularly failures.

According to Fishbach and her colleague Lauren Eskreis-Winkler, when things don’t go as planned, it jolts us out of autopilot.

This "wake-up call" forces our brains to engage more deeply, making failure one of the most powerful learning tools we have.

If we approach it the right way.

Why Failure is a Learning Superpower

When we fail, it surprises us.

It disrupts our expectations and forces us to stop and think:

What went wrong? Why didn’t this work?

Despite what you might think, that moment of reflection is where the magic happens.

Instead of brushing off failure or letting it knock us down, Fishbach and Eskreis-Winkler suggest leaning into it.

By acknowledging what happened without judgment, we can turn failures into valuable lessons.

How to Make Failure Work for You

1. Pause and Reflect: After a setback, resist the urge to move on too quickly. Take a moment to ask yourself: What can I learn from this? Write it down if you need to, it will help clarify your thoughts.

2. Share the Lessons: Talk about your failures with others. Whether it’s with a trusted friend or your team at work, sharing what you’ve learned creates an environment where growth is celebrated over perfection.

3. Focus on Growth: Instead of obsessing over what went wrong, shift your mindset to What can I do differently next time? Every failure is a stepping stone toward improvement.

My Takeaway

Failure isn’t fun, but it’s often the wake-up call we need to grow.

When you embrace it with curiosity rather than fear, you’ll find that each setback holds valuable lessons that can push you closer to success.

So next time something doesn’t go as planned, don’t beat yourself up.

Wake up your brain and let the learning begin.

A previous tweet …

Positively Hilarious

A quick laugh as we part ways this week.

Daily Gratitude Journal

Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal. Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.

Thank you to all who have purchased a copy so far, I am truly grateful and for every journal sold, I will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 

This means that as you develop daily gratitude, you're also helping grant wishes to children facing critical illnesses.

It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.

🌟 What's Inside:

• Thoughtful prompts to inspire daily gratitude.

• Space for personal reflections and affirmations.

• Beautifully designed pages to make each entry a delightful experience.

Ready to embrace the power of gratitude?

Click here to order a copy now!

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