I don’t shop like other people.
When I go to a mall, I usually know exactly which store I want. But before I can get there, I have to find the map and locate those three little words:
You are here.
That phrase has become one of my favorite metaphors for this work. Because the same is true in life.
Two Things Every Journey Needs
Anytime we look for directions to a new place, we have to start with where we are right now. Creating the life you desire works the same way. You need two things:
- A picture of your desired future state. What you want your life to look and feel like.
- An honest understanding of your current state. What is true right now.
Both matter.
If we only look at the future, we can drift into fantasy. We have a beautiful dream, but no bridge to reach it.
If we only look at the current state, we can become discouraged. We see everything that’s wrong and lose sight of what’s possible.
But when we put them together, something powerful happens:
Desired future state + current state = a path forward.
Why Honesty Can Be Hard
Many of us love talking about our dreams. We’re less comfortable with an honest assessment of where we are today. It can bring up regret, embarrassment, or fear.
That’s why I always encourage women to approach this step with gentleness. This isn’t about judging yourself. It’s about telling the truth so you can begin. No judgment. No shame. Just honesty and hope.
Your current state doesn’t disqualify you. It’s simply where the path begins.
Write Your Vision Down
Before you map the gap, it helps to have your vision in writing. Writing clarifies thinking, focuses attention, and improves your success in reaching your goals.
In the workbook that accompanies my book, one of the first action steps is to start a book for your personal strategic plan: a simple 3-ring binder with filler paper. Then draft a personal, compelling vision of your future three, five, or ten years from now.
Here’s a prompt to help: Describe your life three years from now as if it’s already happening. Include:
- how your days feel
- the work you’re doing
- the quality of your relationships
- your health and energy
- your faith and spiritual life
- what you’re most proud of
When you’ve written it, ask yourself: Is it compelling, specific, and vivid? Does it energize me? If not, what would help me feel better about it?
The Two-Column Exercise
Now take a fresh page and draw two columns.
On the left, write “Desired Future State.” Summarize the vision you just wrote. What does your life look and feel like?
On the right, write “Current State.” What is true right now in each of those same areas? Be specific and kind.
Then, beneath the two columns, describe the difference between them. What needs to change, grow, heal, or be strengthened? Where is the gap widest? Where is it surprisingly small?
That gap is where your plan begins. It’s not a measure of failure. It’s a map.
Reflect On It
A few questions to sit with after the exercise:
- What are the benefits to me of having a clear and compelling vision for my future?
- What is the downside of not having one?
- Who are the people who will support and help me accomplish my goals?
That last question matters more than we often realize. We’ll come back to it next week.
Keep Going
The workbook for Envision Your Extraordinary Life includes the full two-column template, reflection pages, and action steps for Chapter 1. You’ll find the book and workbook on Amazon: Book Link| Workbook Link.
What is one word that describes the future you are moving toward?
Linda
Author | Founder, Envision Your Life Coaching
We’re thrilled to introduce our new Extraordinary Life Assessment, a quick, 5-minute check-up designed to pinpoint exactly where you stand on your journey from aspiration to achievement.
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