Envisioning and creating the “future you” is a transformative practice, especially in a world where many people today are living well into their 90s or even reaching 100. Even in your 50s, 60s, and beyond, the choices you make now set the trajectory for the decades ahead. While you may have already achieved much, there is still a vast future waiting to unfold—an evolving version of yourself that you have the power to shape. In this extended lifespan, every day is an opportunity to refine, grow, and align your actions with the vibrant, fulfilling life you aspire to live. The “future you” isn’t some far-off concept; it’s the person you are actively becoming, one step and one decision at a time. By embracing this mindset, you ensure that the later chapters of your life are not just lived but lived well—with purpose, energy, and joy.

Inspired by Shane J. Lopez, Ph.D.’s Making Hope Happen, this blog explores how envisioning and creating the future you can transform your life. It’s about taking ownership of your goals, aligning your actions with your aspirations, and building a vibrant, meaningful future. By focusing on the “future you” — the future version of “you” that you want to create, you can live each day with purpose and energy.

Why the Future You Matters

Creating the future you isn’t about waiting for circumstances to fall into place. It’s about taking deliberate action to shape your life according to your values and dreams. The power of envisioning the future you lies in its ability to:

·       Give clarity and direction: Knowing what you want allows you to set priorities and make meaningful decisions.

·       Fuel motivation: A compelling vision for the future inspires you to take action today.

·       Promote resilience: When challenges arise, having a clear vision helps you adapt and stay on course.

Shane J. Lopez tells the story of John, a Korean War veteran and farmer who felt his life was over when he was told he needed dialysis. The diagnosis seemed like the end of his purpose, but through small, intentional steps, John began to see a new future for himself. This shift in perspective—reframing his future—became the catalyst for change.

The lesson is clear: envisioning the future you want gives you a roadmap to navigate life’s challenges and seize its opportunities.

The Four Beliefs That Build the Future You

Dr. Lopez identifies four core beliefs that underpin a thriving vision of the future:

1.    The Future Can Be Better Than the Present. Believe in the possibility of improvement. This belief sets the stage for progress.

2.    I Have the Power to Shape My Future. Recognize your ability to influence outcomes through your actions and choices.

3.    There Are Many Paths to My Goals. Stay open to different strategies and solutions. Flexibility is key to overcoming obstacles.

4.    Challenges Are Part of the Journey. Embrace difficulties as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable barriers.

These beliefs create a foundation for optimism, persistence, and adaptability—qualities that are essential for building the future you.

Nexting: Imagining and Acting on What’s Next

One of the most powerful tools for creating the future you is a concept Dr. Lopez calls “nexting.” Nexting is the natural human tendency to think about what’s next, combining imagination and time sensitivity to envision future possibilities.

This capacity for “mental time travel” is more than daydreaming—it’s a way to align your thoughts and actions with your goals. By imagining yourself thriving in the future, you can create a clear picture of what you’re working toward.

For example:

• Reliving positive past experiences: Reflecting on moments of joy or achievement can help you envision similar success in the future.
• Balancing dreams with reality: While it’s important to dream big, pairing your aspirations with actionable steps ensures your vision is attainable.

Nexting allows you to stay focused on what’s ahead, helping you build momentum and maintain motivation.

Hope vs. Wishing: The Key to Progress

It’s easy to mistake envisioning the future you for wishful thinking, but Dr. Lopez makes an important distinction:

·       Wishing is passive. It’s imagining a better life without taking steps to make it happen.

·       Hope is active. It’s about setting goals, creating pathways to achieve them, and believing in your ability to succeed.

For instance, wishing to be healthier won’t create change. But actively envisioning yourself as a healthier person—combined with actions like walking, eating mindfully, or meditating—sets the foundation for real transformation.The future you is built not on wishes but on actionable hope.

The Future You Framework: Goals, Agency, and Pathways

Dr. Lopez introduces the Hope Cycle, a framework that integrates three critical elements:

1.    Goals: Set clear and meaningful objectives that inspire you.

2.    Agency: Believe in your capacity to achieve your goals.

3.    Pathways: Identify multiple strategies to overcome challenges and stay on track.

This framework encourages resilience and creativity. It reminds us that there is always more than one way to reach a goal and that persistence pays off.

The Immediate Rewards of Building the Future You

Envisioning the future you isn’t just about long-term results—it brings immediate benefits to your daily life.

1.    Increased Motivation. A clear vision for the future energizes you to take action today.

2.    Greater Purpose. Aligning your actions with your aspirations gives your life meaning and direction.

3.    Improved Well-Being. Small steps toward your vision—like practicing gratitude or staying active—boost your mental and physical health.

Each step you take toward the future you also enhances the present moment.

Overcoming Obstacles to the Future You

Fear and negativity can cloud your vision for the future. When doubts creep in, consider the following:

·       Challenge your fears: Ask yourself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Often, the answer reveals that the risk is smaller than it seems.

·       Reframe negativity: Turn challenges into opportunities for growth. For example, a setback in one area may open new doors in another.

The future you requires courage. It’s about taking steps forward, even when the path is uncertain.

Practical Steps to Envision and Create the Future You

Building the future you starts with small, intentional actions:

1.    Clarify Your Vision. Write down what you want your life to look like in five or ten years. Be specific about your health, relationships, and personal growth.

2.    Set Actionable Goals. Break your vision into achievable steps. For example, if your goal is to be more active, start with a 10-minute walk each day.

3.    Stay Flexible. Be open to adjusting your path as circumstances change. The future you is adaptable, not rigid.

4.    Celebrate Progress. Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Every step forward is a win.

Becoming the Future You

Creating the future you is about more than imagining a better tomorrow—it’s about taking ownership of your life and actively shaping the person you want to become.

By setting meaningful goals, believing in your ability to achieve them, and navigating obstacles with resilience, you can create a future that excites and inspires you. The choices you make today are the building blocks for the life you want to live.

Start now. The future you is waiting, and the best version of yourself is ready to be built.