Talking to your 85 Year old Self!

We often hear the adage, “Hindsight is 20/20,” but the question should be, can we tap into the wisdom of our future selves? And the answer is yes!

Stephen Covey said we must begin with the end in mind, *habit 2* in the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.“

“All things are created twice. There’s a mental or first creation and a physical or second creation of all things.” — Stephen Covey

We need to begin with the mental (first creation) — A visualization or concentration on an idea in your mind’s eye. This is where we align with our older selves.

• Visualize a conversation with your older self — **85-year-old you**.
• Create a scenario where you derive wisdom and advice from your future experiences.
• Even though you have yet actually to live them.

What might this look like?

In her book “Advice from My 80-Year-Old Self, ” Susan O’Malley offers a unique perspective on personal growth and encourages readers to envision a conversation with their older selves.

• Imagine sitting across from yourself, but the 85-year-old version of you.
• See the older you with all the life experiences, successes, pains, and lessons.
• Ask yourself hard questions and
• Have your older self answer honestly – **This is the hardest part!**
• Do you take more risk, change your situation, or take less risk?
• Done correctly, and this exercise can provide enormous clarity.

This practice drives introspection and aligns with our internal self and goals. We can recognize what truly matters and prioritize it correctly. We can then maintain our focus on the tasks (actions) that drive our true long-term aspirations.

Remember

• Life is all about the choices we make.
• Today’s choices create your tomorrow.

I hope you embrace this exercise and it helps you in this crazy world.