It’s easy to get caught up in the present moment, but it’s important to consider our future self when making decisions in our daily lives. We often make choices that provide immediate gratification without considering the long-term consequences. However, taking a moment to think about our future selves can help us make more informed and beneficial choices.
Keeping a future self journal is a great start to working toward your future self. Below are a few things to consider as you expand on your future self through your future self journal.
A good way to do that is to choose a topic from the outline below and use that as the subject for a day’s journal entry. Or you can create affirmations around the thoughts below to keep yourself on track on a daily basis, in or separate from your future self journal.
1. Create a Long-Term Plan
One of the best ways to consider your future self is to create a long-term plan. This plan could be as simple as setting goals for the next year or as complex as mapping out a 10-year plan. Whatever the length, having a plan will help you make decisions that align with your long-term goals. For example, if your goal is to save money for a down payment on a house in five years, you might decide to skip a night out with friends to save money instead. Creating a plan helps you prioritize what’s important and avoid short-term decisions that could derail your long-term goals.
Keep in mind that long-term plans can and do change. There is a level of flexibility needed when creating a long-term plan. We all know that life can throw us curve balls and we’re never ready for them. It’s okay to adjust your goals as needed. The important thing is to keep an eye on the future. Awareness in and of itself is key.
2. Develop Healthy Habits for your Future Self
Developing healthy habits is a great way to consider your future self. Exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep all have long-term benefits. By making healthy choices, you’re investing in your future health and well-being. For example, choosing to go for a run in the morning instead of hitting the snooze button will make you feel better throughout the day and improve your overall health in the long run. By prioritizing healthy habits, you’re investing in a better future self.
3. Build Meaningful Relationships
Investing in relationships is another way to consider your future self. Strong relationships with friends, family, and loved ones can provide emotional support and a sense of purpose. These relationships can also help you navigate difficult times in the future. For example, if you experience a loss or major life change, having a strong support system can make all the difference. By investing in relationships now, you’re setting yourself up for a more fulfilling and connected future.
Being social is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Check out more about it in our article about Healthy You.
4. Save for Retirement and Future Self
Saving for retirement is one of the most important ways to consider your future self. Many people put off saving for retirement, thinking they have plenty of time to do so later. However, the earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. Even small contributions to a retirement account can make a big difference over time. By prioritizing retirement savings, you invest in a more comfortable and secure future.
5. Consider the Environmental Impact
Considering the environmental impact of your daily decisions is another way to consider your future self. Climate change is a global issue that will have long-term consequences for future generations. By making eco-friendly choices now, you’re investing in a better future for the planet and future generations. For example, choosing to bike or walk instead of driving, using reusable bags instead of plastic, or reducing your meat consumption can all have a positive impact on the environment.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Prioritizing self-care, managing stress, and seeking professional help when needed can all have long-term benefits. By investing in your mental health now, you’re setting yourself up for a happier and more fulfilling future. For example, learning healthy coping mechanisms for stress now can help you manage future stressful situations with more ease.
For more information on incorporating self-care into your life, check out our article: 5 Easy Ways to Incorporate Self-Care into Your Life
7. Learn New Skills
Learning new skills is another way to consider your future self. The job market is constantly changing, and having a diverse set of skills can make you more marketable in the future. Learning new skills also keeps your mind active and engaged, which can have long-term benefits for brain health. By investing in learning now, you’re setting yourself up for a more successful and fulfilling future.
In conclusion, considering your future on a daily basis is essential for creating a fulfilling and successful future.
It’s important to remember that small, consistent actions add up over time and can make a big difference in creating the future you want. So, take a moment to think about your future self and make choices that align with your long-term goals and values. Use your future self journal to keep you on track as you continue to grow into your future.
If you don’t have a future self journal, check out these articles to get started!
What Is A Future Self Journal and Why You Should Keep One
Future Self Journal Prompts – Visualize Your Best Future Today
Is It Time to Level Up Your Future Self Journal? Try These 7 Tips
Consider Setting Goals with a Tracker: Goal Tracker
