Have you ever taken the time to envision your future and reflect on who you want to become? It may seem unnecessary or even preposterous, especially when faced with present challenges and difficulties. But envisioning your future and setting goals can be a powerful tool for personal growth and well-being.
My Personal Journey
When I was 29, I was asked to imagine my future and describe who I wanted to be in ten years. At first, I dismissed the idea, feeling overwhelmed by my present struggles. However, I decided to give it a try, and in retrospect, it was the best thing I could have done.
By envisioning and working towards the future I desired, I transformed my life. Today, I am an osteopath, stress coach, author, and international instructor, thanks to the process I call “futurizing myself.”
What is Futurizing Yourself?
Futurizing yourself means living your life with purpose and intention. Instead of leaving your future to chance, you use your vision of the future as a guide to shape your present actions. It involves creating a new narrative for your past, defining your “DNA for the future,” and using these building blocks to create your preferred future.
By changing your perspective and incorporating futures thinking into your everyday decisions, choices, and actions, you can experience personal growth and well-being, even in a fast-changing world.
Uncovering Your DNA for the Future
To futurize yourself, start by examining your past and shedding limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Identify how you want to feel in your ideal future and what you aspire to have. Define your goals and aspirations based on these insights.
For example, I realized that I wanted to feel content, fulfilled, and healthy in my future. I aspired to have a future that was Good, Resilient, Evolvable, Actionable, and Transcendent (G.R.E.A.T.). By asking myself three key questions and analyzing my answers, I discovered my true calling as a therapist, teacher, communicator, researcher, and traveler.
Once you have defined your “DNA for the future,” use it as a foundation to envision your preferred future. Imagine where you want to be in ten years and write it down. Take small steps towards that future every day, incorporating futures thinking into your decision-making process.
The Benefits of Futurizing Yourself
Incorporating futures thinking into your life has numerous benefits for your well-being and success. It gives your life a sense of purpose and meaning, provides stability during difficult times, and equips you to navigate a fast-changing world. Increasing your future self-continuity has been scientifically linked to improved mental health, better academic performance, and higher personal net worth.
Embracing the Future
Today, the future is more important than ever. We live in a world that is constantly changing due to emerging technologies and societal transformations. Simply hoping for the best or ignoring the future’s challenges is not enough.
By futurizing yourself, you can actively shape your future and secure a fulfilling and successful life. Embrace the process of creating your “DNA for the future” and designing your future purposefully. As you change your story, you change your future, impacting not only yourself but also those around you.
Invest the time to think about your future, overcome your fears, and embrace the possibilities ahead. Futurize yourself and create the life you want to live.
By Tom Meyers, osteopath, author of “Futurize Yourself”