A Future you Can Believe In

Wendy Humphris, ROHP

When your self-esteem begins to rise, you realize you have options you never hoped for. Suddenly, your future isn’t bleak and depressing. It’s exciting and filled with new opportunities and experiences. Rather than dreading the future, you’re anticipating it. So, what’s next? How do you get from where you are today to that bright, shiny future that you’re looking forward to?

It's time to dream a dream.
Start by dreaming. What is it that you really want to do? Try to think about what you’d like your life to look like if money and time weren’t factors. Would you take dance classes? Start your own business? Embrace your inner artist?  Travel across the country in an RV?
You can’t work toward your dreams until you’ve identified them. It’s OK to have multiple dreams. Most people are multi-passionate. They have a passion for several different things. You don’t have to just pick one thing and be that for the rest of your life. 

What does your future self want to accomplish?
It’s time to figure out what you want to accomplish. This isn’t about titles or money or fame. It’s about how you want to be remembered. How will leave your mark on the world? 
Do you want to be remembered for being that sassy businesswoman that provided clean drinking water for an entire village in a third world country? Do you want to be remembered as the artist and foster mom of countless teens that didn’t have a place to go? Do you want to be the secretary that decided to go to medical school at age fifty? 

What do you see as the major road block to making that happen?
Anticipating road blocks ahead of time can be helpful when you’re thinking about the future. Common road blocks might include time, money, or a lack of emotional support. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Just acknowledge the road blocks. By doing this, you’ll be better prepared mentally and emotionally when you encounter setbacks or problems along the way.

What does your life look like when that road back is in your rear mirror?
No matter who you are or what you’re trying to achieve, you will encounter road blocks. In order to prevail over them, you have to have a clear vision of your future. This vision has to be strong enough to motivate you when you’re still living your ‘before’ story.  If your goal is to go back to college, then imagine that moment when you walk across the stage in your graduation gown. If your goal is to start a business, imagine that moment when you get your first client. Hold onto your vision.

Dreaming about your future and planning for it can be exciting. It can also feel a little scary at times. But don’t let the fear stop you. You deserve a beautiful future filled with dreams.