Doing Nice Things for Future Sarah

One way I’ve built trust with myself over the years, is by doing nice things for Future Sarah. This was an idea I borrowed from the ever-inspiring Elizabeth Gilbert.

Sometimes, doing nice things for Future Sarah looks like:

• Filling the car with gas as soon as I notice it’s getting low so that Future Sarah doesn’t have to stop if she’s running late

• Washing the dishes at night so that the coffee pot is clean and Future Sarah can enjoy the peacefulness of a hot cup in the morning

• Cutting up fruits and vegetables as soon as I get home from the grocery store so that meal prep is easier at the end of the day when Future Sarah might be tired and hungry

• Washing my face before bed because it feels nice and Future Sarah’s skin is healthier when she wakes up

• Completing a task I’ve been avoiding or facing a difficult conversation so that Future Sarah doesn’t have to carry this burden or this heaviness any longer

It’s a simple and silly mind trick, but it has profoundly impacted my concept of self-discipline and my relationship with myself.

I think about Future Sarah as a dear friend and I like doing nice things for my friends! I can’t tell you how often I end up saying that you to Previous Sarah for her kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity.

If you struggle with motivation or are looking to build self-trust, give this a try!

You Future Self will thank you!