Send a physical letter to your future self

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, learning and development strategies are continuously evolving. Among the digital modules, e-learning platforms, and gamified training exercises, lies a powerful yet simple tool - the act of reflection and journaling. Let’s explore how incorporating the “letter to myself” approach can serve as a catalyst for genuine growth, allowing professionals to envision their “future me.”

Why Reflection Matters in Corporate Training:

Reflection is the conscious act of considering past actions and experiences to enhance learning and improve future actions. It allows individuals to:

Understand the ‘why’ behind their actions.
Identify areas of strength and improvement.
Foster continuous learning and personal development.

When employees are encouraged to reflect, they actively engage with the material, leading to better retention and understanding.

Journaling: The Old Meets the New

Journaling, often considered an age-old practice, has a modern twist in corporate training. Through the “letter to myself” technique, professionals are not just recounting their day or noting down the lessons learned; they’re actively writing to their “future me.” It promotes a forward-thinking mindset, essential in today’s competitive business landscape.

The “Letter to Myself” Approach in Corporate Training:

Imagine asking your employees or trainees to write a “letter to myself” at the beginning of a training session, detailing where they see themselves at the end of it. Or, perhaps, after completing a training module, they pen down their aspirations for where they’d like to be in a year or two. This practice:

Sets Clear Intentions: By envisioning the “future me,” trainees set tangible goals for themselves.
Boosts Engagement: When participants have a clear view of their future selves, they’re more engaged and invested in the training process.
Promotes Accountability: The “letter to myself” serves as a personal commitment, encouraging responsibility for one’s growth.

Benefits of the “Future Me” Strategy in Training:

Enhanced Motivation: Writing to the “future me” can be incredibly motivating. When employees visualize a better version of themselves, they’re driven to achieve that vision.
Personalized Learning: Every “letter to myself” is unique, highlighting that everyone’s learning journey is personal. This can encourage more tailored training approaches.
Continuous Feedback Loop: Revisiting these letters can offer insights into how aligned individuals are with their goals and what changes might be needed in training strategies.

How to Implement This in Your Corporate Training Programs:

Kick-off Sessions with a “Letter to Myself”: At the beginning of training programs, give participants 15-20 minutes to write to their “future me.” This sets the tone for the entire session.
Decide on a delivery date: Ask the participants to choose a date when they want to receive their letter. This can be weeks, months, or year in the future. The delivery date should fit the content of the letter. If the participant wrote about a career goal, the letter should arrive at a time when that goal could have been achieved.
Create a Safe Environment: Ensure that employees understand these letters are personal. If they’re shared, it should be voluntary. The objective is self-growth, not external judgment.

In Conclusion:

Incorporating reflection and journaling, especially the “letter to myself” strategy, can be a game-changer in corporate training. It bridges the gap between the present and the future, allowing employees to actively shape their “future me.” Such practices instill a sense of ownership, direction, and purpose in training, making learning a deeply personal and transformative experience.