Letter to Your Future Self
Imagine opening a letter from you, written years ago. It’s a powerful feeling—like time traveling through your own story. But writing to your future self isn’t just sentimental; research shows it has real psychological benefits.
Boosts Motivation
Studies reveal that when you feel connected to your future self, you make better decisions today. A well-known study from Stanford University (Hershfield et al., 2011) found that people who felt more emotionally connected to their future selves were more likely to make choices that benefited them in the long run—like saving money and sticking to their goals. Writing a letter bridges the gap between who you are now and who you want to become.
Cultivates Self-Compassion
Writing to your future self can help you become kinder to yourself. A study by Breines and Chen from 2012 found that self-compassion encourages people to bounce back from failures and take proactive steps toward self-improvement. By reflecting on your hopes and progress, you focus on personal growth rather than regret.
Prompt
Take 10 minutes to write a letter to yourself one year from now. Start with these ideas:
- What are you proud of right now?
- What’s a challenge you hope you’ve overcome?
- What advice do you want to give your future self?
- What’s one dream or goal you hope is closer to reality?
Your future self is waiting— they’ll be glad you reached out.