How the end-of-history illusion prevents you from shaping your future self
Most people believe that their personalities, work situations, and values won’t change much in the future, even though they have changed tremendously in the past. This is because of a phenomenon called the end-of-history illusion. Let’s see why it matters in our professional and personal lives and three simple steps towards letting go of this illusion to better shape your future self
Seeing the present as a watershed moment
Three psychologists coined the phrase “end-of-history illusion” in 2013
- Their discovery of the phenomenon is based on a series of studies showing that people tend to underestimate how much they will change in the future, despite knowing the much they have changed over time
- People regard the present to be a “watershed moment” where they have finally become the person they will be for the rest of their lives
Join 40,000 mindful makers!
Maker Mind is a weekly newsletter with science-based insights on creativity, mindful productivity, better thinking and lifelong learning.
- Work smarter and happier by joining a community of fellow curious minds who want to achieve their goals without sacrificing their mental health.
The impact of the end-of-history illusion
Affects our lives in several ways
- Reactive life choices: robs us from ownership we could take when it comes to shaping our future self
- Fixed labels: makes us hold onto labels too tightly and possibly miss opportunities that can change us for the better
- Short-sighted planning: influences our time and energy, which can lead to short-sighted thinking
Three steps to actively shape your future self
Reflect on your past self: think about how much you have changed in the past few years.
- Imagine your ideal future self: write a vision statement for yourself and share your personal vision with others so you can make plans to achieve your goals.