Have you ever stopped to wonder what your life will be like in the next few months, years or even a decade from now? Have you considered the kind of person you’d like to become? What about the kind of achievements you’d like to attain?
If you’re anything like me, these things can be quite daunting to think about. It all seems so overwhelming, yet exciting at the same time. Then the big question pops up… “How can I even make my ideal future a reality?”
Well, I believe one of the best ways to explore these thoughts and aspirations is with future self journaling, an amazing self discovery exercise that allows you to connect with your future self, set meaningful goals and aid you in creating a roadmap to achieve them.
Here’s exactly how to get started with future self journaling so you can create your ideal life. Plus, some powerful journal prompts that’ll help you dig deeper into this exercise.
What is future self journaling?
Future self journaling is just that: journaling about your future self.
The goal of future self journaling is to create a clear vision of what you want your ideal self and life to look like, then using that visions as guide for the actions you take and decisions you make in your daily life.
By imagining yourself as the person you want to become, you can gain a sense of clarity when it comes to choosing and achieving your goals.
When practicing future self journaling, you might write about who that person is, how they spend their days, how they feel and what they’ve accomplished. You might also reflect on the steps you need to take in order to become that future self.
Since this type of journaling helps you connect with your desires and motivations, it can be a very powerful tool for personal growth and transformation!
The benefits of future self journaling
Future self journaling isn’t just a simple writing exercise that you tuck away and forget about. It can truly have a profound impact on your life. Here are some of the many ways it can help you:
Gain a sense of clarity
Future self journaling can help you gain clarity on what you truly want out of life. With this exciting vision of your future, you’ll also gain clarity on the actions you need to take to turn it into reality.
Finally take action
With your newfound clarity on your goals, future self journaling can help you finally take action toward them. By asking yourself what steps you need to take to get to your desired future, you can create your perfect action plan that’ll turn your goals into achievements.
Easily overcome obstacles
Obstacles are no longer the intimidating problem they once were. When you envision your future self, you’re seeing the person who has already overcome these obstacles. This will help you gain the courage and confidence you need to overcome them in real life.
Stay motivated and consistent
Future self journaling can help you stay motivated and consistent on your journey toward achieving your goals. By regularly envisioning the ideal future life you want, you can stay focused on what’s important and avoid getting sidetracked by distractions.
How to use future self journaling to create your ideal life
Start with a clear vision
The first step in using future self journaling to create your dream life is to have a clear vision of what you want. Spend some time envisioning your ideal future self in detail. Imagine what your life looks like when you achieve your goals, what you’re doing, how you’re feeling, who you’re with and so on.
Ask yourself powerful questions
Once you have a clear vision of your future self, it’s time to start asking yourself powerful questions. These questions should be ones that help you gain clarity on the steps you need to take to achieve your goals. Here are some examples of questions you can ask yourself:
- What does my ideal day look like?
- How do I feel when I’m living my dream life?
- What actions do I need to take to get there?
- Who can help me achieve my goals?
I’ve included journal prompts that’ll help you sink deeper into the exercise later in this post, so be sure to check those out for more ideas!
Envision your future self in detail
As you answer these questions, try to envision your future self in detail. Imagine every aspect of your dream life, from the clothes you’re wearing to the people you’re with. The more vividly you can imagine your future self, the more likely you are to achieve your goals.
Take action toward your goals
Once you have a clear vision of your future self and have identified the steps you need to take to achieve your goals, it’s time to start taking action. Use your future self journaling practice as a roadmap for achieving your goals. Set actionable steps that you can take each day, week, and month to get closer to your dream life.
Review and reflect regularly
Be sure to review and reflect on your future self journaling practice regularly. This will help you stay focused on your goals and make adjustments to your plan as needed. Review your journal entries weekly or monthly and take note of any progress you’ve made toward your goals. Celebrate your wins and use any setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
What you need to start future self journaling
Your favorite journal: The first thing you’ll need is a journal or notebook to write down your thoughts and reflections (my favorite is the Oxford A5 notebook). Typing on a computer works just fine as well, though I find there’s something special about doing these exercises by hand. Regardless, go with what’s most comfortable for you.
A quiet space: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can focus on your journaling without distractions. Feel free to create a relaxing atmosphere by playing music or lighting your favorite candle. Have fun with it!
A prompt or topic: This is optional, but having a prompt or topic in mind for your journaling session is great for getting things going.
An open mind: Approach your journaling with an open and curious mind. Allow yourself to explore your thoughts and desires without judgment or self-criticism. You may be pleasantly surprised with what you write!
Powerful future self journaling prompts
If you’re having trouble getting started, here are some great prompts to consider:
- What does your ideal day look like? Describe it in detail, from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed.
- How do you want to feel in your ideal life? Describe the emotions you want to experience on a daily basis, such as joy, peace, excitement, etc.
- Who do you want to be surrounded by in your ideal life? Describe the people you want to have in your life, from family and friends to colleagues and mentors.
- What are your biggest dreams and aspirations? Write them down and describe why they are important to you.
- What are the biggest obstacles you currently face in achieving your dream life? How did “future you” overcome them?
- How can you cultivate a positive mindset and attitude that will help you achieve your goals?
- What actions do you need to take to make your dream life a reality? Create a step-by-step plan to achieve your goals.
- What habits do you need to adopt or change to live your dream life? Identify any negative habits you need to eliminate and positive habits you need to cultivate.
- How can you incorporate self-care into your daily routine to support your physical, mental and emotional well-being?
- What are you grateful for in your life right now, and how can you cultivate more gratitude and appreciation in your daily life?
The key to effective future self journaling is to be honest, specific, and detailed in your writing. Use these prompts as a starting point to explore your vision, but allow yourself to wander freely!
Do it for you!
Future self journaling can be a fantastic tool to help you create the life of your dreams. Remember to be kind and patient with yourself along the way.
Creating your ideal life is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy the process and learn from the challenges. So, keep showing up for yourself, keep taking action towards your goals and keep visualizing your future self. You can absolutely create the life you desire!
Need more help?
I have some great printables that can help you with goal setting, being productive and staying on top of your game! Here are a few printables I know you’ll love:
All of my printables are PDFs that can be opened in digital planner apps as well. Let me know what you think!
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