Notes on: The science-backed ‘Future Self’ strategy can pave the way to greater success

'The science-backed 'Future Self' strategy can pave the way to greater success' is an article by Benjamin Hardy and was originally published on fastcompany.com.

The Psychology of Future Self

Daniel Gilbert, a Harvard psychologist, explains in his TED Talk, 'The Psychology of Your Future Self', that his research suggests although people can clearly see how much they have changed since 10 years ago, they drastically underestimate the amount they will change in the future. He calls this the "end of history illusion" wherein we feel we are finished products and do not realize we are actually works in progress. Research by Gilbert and others shows that your personality will continuously change throughout your life, whether you want it to or not.

Another reason people assume they will not change is what Stanford Psychologist Carol Dweck calls a "fixed mindset". People with a fixed mindset are defined by how they perceive themselves right now, and do not believe in growth. On the other hand, people with a "growth mindset" are not overly concerned with how they perceive themselves now, and instead see themselves in a constant state of growth. For people with a fixed mindset, failures define them, but people with a growth mindset simply see them as learning opportunities.

One of the main reasons someone develops a fixed mindset is because of a past experience that leads to an identity statement like "I am not good at this" or "I cannot do this." For example, if you fail a math test, you may think you are not good at math and then you stop trying, but if you just saw the test as a learning experience, you would not be afraid to get better at it, and inevitably you'd grow.

Identity is more important than personality when it comes to defining your future. Your identity is how you see yourself, and it shapes behaviours that overtime reflect our personality.

Hal Hershfield, a UCLA psychologist, suggests it is good to see your future self as different than who you are today. When you see yourself as different then you can make present decisions that align with who you want your future self to be. For example, if you future self wants to be healthy and avoid being overweight then perhaps your present self shouldn't eat any sugary foods.

Having a future self in mind allows you to engage in purposeful learning and growth. Knowing your future identity allows you to create systems and habits that enable you to become that person.

Defining and Becoming Your Future Self

Psychologist agree that past behaviour is the best predictor of future behaviour for most people, but for those who have a clear picture of who they want to become, then the 'future you' can actually be a better predictor of your behaviour.

Follow these steps to see your future self as different from who you are today:

• Have a clear picture of your future self

• Understand that your current identity is temporary and will change

• Share with people who your future self is (this takes courage)

• Focus your goals, and drive your decisions and behaviour based on your future self

• Measure your progress

• Invest in your future self with strong commitment

• Never be defined by who you are right now

Matthew McConaughey's 2014 Academy Award Acceptance Speech for Best Actor in a Leading Role