Chapter 1: Looking Ahead

Reflecting on the Future You

Since mid-August, I've dedicated time to envisioning my future endeavors. After leaving the crypto sector, I realized my long-standing dissatisfaction with the industry, which often felt flawed and lacked genuine purpose. I’ve always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit, yet I became complacent in traditional roles, neglecting pursuits that could liberate me from client dependence.

My focus has been somewhat fragmented. The unpredictability of income, combined with my ADHD tendencies, often leads me to chase various paths. Then, I stumbled upon a YouTube video by Dr. Benjamin Hardy, a psychologist and acclaimed author. His book, "10X is Easier than 2X," emphasizes that reaching seemingly unattainable goals can be easier than striving for smaller ones.

The insights I gained resonated deeply, sparking a profound connection within me. Typically, we are influenced by our past behaviors and experiences, which shape our current identity. However, if you aspire to achieve a significant goal or dream, relying on who you were in the past might not suffice. How can you expect change if you continue with the same old habits?

For instance, I've engaged in client work for nearly three years, enjoying a stable income. But as a widow living in a rented home, I felt the need to quickly seek additional clients after my recent job loss in the crypto field.

My aspiration is to attain financial independence and own my home. Yet, I have been vocalizing this dream for decades without tangible progress. How can I expect to achieve this dream while continuing to write for clients? Taking on more work could lead to burnout, while increasing my fees has its limits due to market resistance. Thus, my ambitions must extend beyond the conventional.

The Power of Future Guidance

Dr. Hardy suggests that our present selves should be guided by our future selves. What would the future version of yourself advise you to do today if you achieved your most ambitious goal? Would she encourage seeking more clients, or would she push for the publication of the courses and books you've envisioned? Would she recommend against affiliate marketing for passive income?

No. The future "me" is a dynamic creative who enjoys her work and does not trade time for money. She embodies freedom and empowers others to achieve financial liberation.

Understanding this concept can be transformative when you internalize the influence of your future self on your current choices.

Chapter 2: Steps to Become Your Future Self

1. Separate Your Past, Present, and Future Selves

Recognize that you are not the person you were yesterday, nor will you be the same tomorrow. You have evolved and can continue to do so. Do not allow your current identity to dictate your future. The choice of who you wish to become is in your hands.

Though it may sound simple, it often proves challenging. Our survival instinct resists change, even when we know it’s beneficial. Embrace discomfort as a sign of growth, indicating that you're moving closer to becoming your empowered future self.

2. Visualize Your Ideal Future Self

What are your aspirations? What kind of individual do you wish to become? How do you envision your life? Answering these questions can help you form a vivid picture of your desired future self. Utilize techniques such as visualization, journaling, and affirmations to solidify this vision.

Here are some questions I frequently ponder:

• What do I truly desire?
• What do I want to avoid?
• What kind of car do I drive?
• Which charities do I support?
• Who shares my future journey?
• What does my dream home look like?
• What does my daily routine encompass?
• How can I connect better with my future self?
• What actions can I take today to move closer to my aspirations?
• Who must I become today to achieve my extraordinary goal?
• What relationships should I cultivate to support my future self?
• What does my future self look like, and how does she present herself?
• How can I release my past to ensure it doesn’t dictate my future?

I engage in nightly journaling, which conditions my subconscious while I sleep. Each morning, I awaken feeling invigorated and clearer about my next steps.

3. Craft and Share Your New Identity

Your identity comprises the narrative you tell yourself and others about who you are and who you aspire to be. This narrative influences your thoughts, emotions, and actions. To embody your future self, create a compelling and positive story outlining your journey to your goal. What obstacles did you face, and how did you overcome them?

Share this story with supportive individuals who can hold you accountable. Consider forming a mastermind group with like-minded people. This new identity will guide your actions, shaping your personality as you strive toward your ambitious goal.

You have the power to start living as your future self today. Embrace your future identity and initiate the change you wish to see in yourself and the world. I truly believe you possess the ability to become who you want to be.