Simon Sinek, author and host of the podcast "A Little Optimism," has recently presented a new idea regarding wish lists. He has concluded that while wish lists typically include big dreams like skydiving, learning a language, or traveling to sightseeing spots, looking at these unfinished lists can create feelings of disappointment and depression.
Creating a Reverse Wish List
Sinek informally created the reverse wish list about 15 years ago. This list includes all the good and amazing experiences he has had so far, such as seeing a complete rainbow. He keeps this list on his mobile phone and occasionally revisits it, reminding himself of forgotten experiences and enjoying them.
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Sinek says, "Why shouldn't I take credit for these experiences that have naturally occurred in my life?" Creating such a list can help you enjoy and celebrate past moments instead of focusing solely on future goals.
Paying Attention to Small and Big Moments
This reverse list helps break the mental habits that always look to the future and lead to forgetting what we have experienced in the past. Rachel Newdell, a psychologist, says, "Much of daily life is focused on the next goal, and we rarely pay attention to what we have previously experienced."
By creating this list, you find an opportunity to remember the beautiful and amazing moments that have occurred in your life. Newdell states, "Instead of thinking you haven't reached your goal yet, you realize how much of your life story exists right now."
This exercise can be particularly beneficial for individuals who feel they are always falling behind or comparing themselves to others. Alyssa Kushner, a social worker, says, "We get lost in what others are doing and forget what we have accomplished ourselves." Writing down personal positive moments can help you remember your achievements in life during times when you feel others are doing better than you.
These reminders can help improve your mood and self-esteem. Kushner says, "I took that risk, built that friendship, and got through that tough period." In situations where it is easy to focus on problems, this list serves as a reminder of successes and positive experiences.
The goal of creating this list is to choose what is important to you. Newdell says, "You are not trying to prove something to yourself or others; you are simply recalling your life."
You can keep these reminders in a notebook or on your mobile phone and view it as a living document that becomes richer with new experiences and old reminders. Whenever something comes to mind, jot it down and set aside time to review old notes.
By reviewing these notes, recalling details, feelings, and happy moments from your life will be easier. Sinek says, "There are no rules here."
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