Best Possible Self Exercise

Imagine your ideal life to enhance motivation and well-being

The Best Possible Self Exercise, backed by over 20 years of research, is a validated psychological technique that enhances motivation and psychological well-being. This exercise encourages vivid visualization of a future where all your aspirations are realized, helping you to align daily actions with long-term goals.

Top benefits:

Motivational: Helps to create a clear and compelling vision of your future.
Insightful: Reveals deeper aspirations and life goals.
Empowering: Encourages alignment of daily actions with long-term objectives.

This activity is particularly helpful when you:

need motivation or inspiration to pursue your long-term goals and dreams

feel uncertain about what will benefit your future the most

confused about your needs or desires

Step 1. Choose a time frame for your envisioned future (5, 10, 20 years, etc.).

Step 2. Use the visualization script to imagine your life in this future, where everything has gone as well as it possibly could.

Step 3. Write about your ideal life in the worksheet, detailing your achievements, happiness, and what fulfillment looks like for you.

Step 4. Reflect on how your current actions can lead to the future that you just imagined.

Important notes:

Imagining the best possible future is a powerful tool in positive psychology, offering a range of benefits from emotional upliftment to goal setting and stress management. However, its effectiveness can vary based on individual circumstances and cultural contexts.
For some, especially those experiencing severe mental health issues, this exercise might be challenging or could lead to feelings of disappointment if expectations are not managed properly.
Seek professional help from a licensed therapist if you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated after completing this excercise.