VisionReflection ~20 min · 6 steps

Visualizing

Imagining the future helps you prepare for the steps you'll need to take to get there.

Overview

Sometimes imagining a future goal being achieved helps you work backward to define what's needed to bring it about. It also pushes you to consider what's needed beyond key features and functionality. The core experience matters, but sometimes the magic is what drives people to use a product or service.

When we've worked with clients, we call this exercise "Postcard from the Future". It can be done individually or in teams of 2–4. With a team, it brings alignment around a common goal and gets people passionate about solving a deep challenge.

Take 15 minutes to set aside today and what you're trying to build now. Imagine you're writing a postcard from your future self. You just spoke at a big event a year or two from now. Your product is helping thousands or millions of people and you're sharing your story. What would you want your current self to know?

The Power of Visualization

Visualization is a powerful technique many athletes use to improve performance. The concept is simple: by imagining themselves successfully completing a difficult play, they mentally prepare for the real thing.

Athletes use visualization alongside other training. As they prepare, they spend time each day visualizing key actions, like dribbling a ball or executing a routine.

It helps in several ways. It improves confidence by helping them see themselves as successful. It helps them overcome anxiety by rehearsing difficult situations in a safe, controlled environment. And it sharpens focus and concentration by training the mind on the task at hand.

The worksheet

Postcard from the future. Pick a date at least a year out, then fill each box with a few bullets from your future self's perspective.

How to do it

Set the stage. Pick a date in the future at least one year from now. Choose a big, prestigious event in your industry with a large audience or impact.

One box at a time, take 2–3 minutes to think through each question and write a few bullet points.

Once you've completed all six boxes, reflect on what stands out: What surprised you? What's one big thing you want to get right? What do you want to avoid? What (if anything) would you change today?

Thought Starter

The best way to get people thinking about the future is to first move them past the present. Ideally, run this AFTER you've explored what's possible, not just what you know today.

Even simple shifts: you don't need bank tellers with an ATM. You don't need a camera now that you have a smartphone. You don't need to drive with self-driving cars. Just be prepared — if you start with a strong stimulus, your results may be sprinkled with it.