Instead of starting LO, i.e clicking on a generic icon, start the component you intend to use: Writer, Calc, Impress, … because you know tou’ll edit a text document, a spreadsheet, an presentation, … When the component opens, File
>Recent Documents
will present the list of recent file names.
Remember that this list is only a cache for your recent activity. If you moved a file or deleted it outside of LO, the name will no longer point on the designated file. This is not LO fault. This was done without LO knowing it.
To show the community your question has been answered, click the ✓ next to the correct answer, and “upvote” by clicking on the ^ arrow of any helpful answers. These are the mechanisms for communicating the quality of the Q&A on this site. Thanks!
In case you need clarification, edit your question (not an answer which is reserved for solutions) or comment the relevant answer.