Best possible self intervention
(Adapted from King, 2001; Liau et al., 2016; Layous et al., 2013)
Do this exercise for 4 x days in a row
Step 1 - 20 minutes
Think about your life in the future. Imagine that everything has gone as well as it possibly could in every area of your life.
Areas of your multidimensional wellbeing might include:
Mind: emotions, thoughts, behaviours
Body: health, movement, exercise
Environment: connection, nature, adventure
Interpersonal: social, relationships (intimate, family, friends), community
Occupational: work, career, calling, what you do
Economic: finance, possessions e.g. house, car
You have worked hard and succeeded at accomplishing all of your life goals. Think of this as the realization of all of your life dreams. Now, write about what you imagined.
Step 2 - 15 minutes
Now, write down a goal (or goals) you think you might want to attain that will help you achieve your best possible self that you just described. Sometimes long-term goals seem overwhelming or out of your reach. You could think of three to five big things that need to happen to reach this vision. Then consider that every journey begins with a single step. What are the steps towards your three to five big mid-goals that are necessary to reach your long-term goal (or goals)? Start small and work big. A small step could be as simple as proactively seeking information you need or talking to someone who may be able to guide you. Defining the steps you need to take to get a little closer towards your goal is a great way to get going with the journey without worrying too much about the length of the road.