I met my future self a few months ago.  No, I’m not crazy.  And no, I didn’t find a worm hole in the time continuum.  It was an exercise given to me by my career coach.  I was to envision my future self, meet her, step into her body and experience what her life felt like, then step back into my present self and ask her any questions I had for…well, for myself.  It sounds confusing and pointless when I see it written down, but it was far from it.  It was one of the most liberating, inspiring, moving, and unexpected exercises I have ever done–and believe me, as an actress and self-help enthusiast, I’ve participated in enough of them to last several lifetimes.

After reaching a state of relaxation, I was led through a series of visualizations that took me from the Meta Center in New York City on September 9, 2009 to a serene, white sand beach on the California coast (my choice) twenty years later.

Photo by Jill Rath

I was asked to envision and observe myself in everyday life.  My future self was completely confident, at ease with the world, at peace with herself, and was such a beautiful and inspiring person to watch.  When I stepped into my future self, I literally felt different.  The distinction between my two selves was tangible and dramatic.  Tears ran down my face because I was so happy for my future self, and my present self could feel how great it was to feel that way.  It’s one thing to imagine the way you want to be and feel.  It’s completely different to actually feel it and experience it as yourself. Honestly, it was a little freaky, even for me.  After returning to my present self, I had the opportunity to ask my wiser self advice.  And wise she was.  I also received a gift from future me.  It was a palm-sized, golden heart, which faintly glowed as if lit from within.  I have no idea what significance it had but it was a lovely gesture nonetheless.  After we said our goodbyes, my coach led me back to present time and space.  I felt rested, rejuvenated, and optimistic toward the future.  I might not see a clear path to where I want to be, but I feel confident that if I continue to believe in my talent, keep taking action toward my goals, and stay true to myself, that I will eventually reach my destination.

I think anyone would benefit from a future self visualization exercise.  There are many different versions, but the end result is the same.  I found these two audio versions online, which I think would be better than trying to read a description and attempting it yourself.  I encourage you to just try it once…no one but your future self has to know, and your present self might benefit from the journey!