For Finn Prevett, mental health campaigner and co-founder of mindful gratitude journal The Positive Planner, the past can hold valuable lessons.

“There’s a misconception that dwelling on the past is always negative.

“Of course, it can be if it takes you to a place of self-sabotage, or is very triggering, this is not a positive way to dwell on the past.

“But when used as a way to encourage and inspire our current and future self, and remember our strength and wisdom, this is very powerful.

“Dwelling on past mistakes in a positive way can mean we avoid making those same mistakes again, and adapting a growth mindset as adults allows our past to act as part of our personal growth.

“I have learnt that I can get through anything and I am strong.

“I look back at the micro moments of hope and joy between the darkness and the clouds, and I know that really it is the small things in life that make it worth living.

“My past has allowed me to expand, to learn, to grow. Looking back on seemingly ‘negative’ moments offers me a lot of hope for the future and reminds me of how strong I really am.”

One easy way to harness your positive past experiences when you need a jolt of inspiration is to make use of your senses, like the evocative nature of scent.

For example, the cedarwood and orange blossom in a perfume like My Way might prompt memories of enriching travels and holidays with your friends, giving you a lift when you need it.

5 experts on why dwelling on the past can be a good thing