Reserving Imagination for the Future You Want
Anxiety is often fueled by fear of the future worrying about what could go wrong, what might fall apart, or how challenges will unfold. While these concerns are valid, it’s important to intentionally set time aside to direct your imagination towards the life you want. By envisioning a preferred future with your values, desires, and personal growth, you create a mental roadmap for hope and action. Take some time to explore these five visioning prompts.
- What Are the Characteristics of a Mentally Healthy You?
What does mental well-being look like in your life? Are you more emotionally resilient and adaptable to stress? Do you wake up excited for your day rather than overwhelmed? Does a mentally healthy version of you set and maintain boundaries with ease? Recognizing these characteristics provides a benchmark for growth and self-care practices that can support your well-being. - What Does Civic Engagement Look Like to You?
Many people care about democracy but haven’t clearly envisioned what it looks like in action. Is it greater involvement in the decision-making process in your local community? Advocating for stronger protections for voting rights? Try defining what civic engagement and democracy mean to you. - What’s Your Ideal Relationship Status?
Relationships take many forms, try defining what truly fulfills you beyond societal expectations. Do you envision a life partner where you both maintain separate bedrooms under the same roof? Do you prefer multiple partners across different cities or countries, each offering unique connections? Or do you see yourself as a loner who thrives in deep, fulfilling friendships? Understanding your relationship ideal helps guide your present choices. - What Do You Want to Be Different on the World Stage in the Next 10 Years?
Global change can feel overwhelming, but identifying the issues that matter most to you can inspire action. Do you want to see progress in climate policies? More ethical leadership? A shift toward greater economic equity? By envisioning the world you want to see, you can determine where to invest your time, resources, and voice. - What Will Happen If You Maintain Your New Year’s Resolutions for an Entire Year?
We’re about 45 days into the new year. Consider what consistency in your personal goals would lead to over time. If you stick to your fitness routine, mindfulness practice, or creative projects, how will your life change? What new skills or strengths will you have developed? Imagining the long-term benefits of discipline and commitment can make daily habits feel more meaningful and sustainable.
Give Your Imagination a Destination
Anxiety often fixates on what could go wrong. By reserving space in your imagination for the life you truly want, you create the possibility of moving toward it.