One of my favorite things in the world is receiving a note or letter from friends and family. For my birthday, I’d much rather receive a thoughtful card than a gift. I love words and I love paper goods.

The most wonderful thing about receiving a letter is that you can save it. It becomes a keepsake. And you can go back in time whenever you read it. It’s sorta like you’re transported to that moment, time, and place.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner (can you believe it?!), you’ll most likely write a few letters to friends, family, and a significant other. But before you start writing to others, how about you give yourself a very powerful gift? Writing a letter to your future self.

Here’s why you should write a letter to yourself:
1. Motivation
Six months, a year, or even in 10 years, you’ll want to see how far you’ve come. In moments when life gets tough, you’ll want and need a reminder of all the good that has happened and all the progress you’ve made in life. And you’ll be reminded of how strong you are. It will motivate you to keep going.

2. Thankfulness
As you look back and hear your younger self, you’ll probably be transported to that time and place. You’ll read the struggles and challenges you were facing at the time. You’ll be reminded of answered prayers. And you’ll be thankful for the way God brought you through it all.

3. Laughter
I have letters and journals of when I was in high school and man, do I laugh my butt off when I read my teenage words. Looking back at yourself, even if it’s just six months, may make you laugh. Specifically, at how dramatic you can be sometimes (I’m talking about myself here).

So have I convinced you?

If I have then here is what you can include in a letter to yourself:
1. Questions
Ask yourself questions about your life. Where are living? How’s your job or career going? How is your family? Do you have any new friends? What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend? What are you praying for?

2. Life Lessons
Write a few life lessons you are currently learning. Maybe you can give your future self some advice or a reminder to keep working on the life lessons that mean the most to you.

3. Prayer & Goals
Make a list of the prayers you are currently bringing before the Lord. You can also include some prayers that have been answered recently. Also, make a list of goals or aspirations you are working on and asking God to help you accomplish.

4. Habits
Include some habits you are creating and habits you are trying to break. Perhaps you can briefly write how you’re working on this. It can be your eating habits, morning ritual, or relational habits.

You can write a physical letter, put it away in a secure place you’ll remember about, and set a reminder on your calendar or phone to open it on a certain date. Another option is to do a virtual letter via FutureMe and you’ll receive the letter straight to your inbox on a specific date you select.

So, will you be writing a letter to yourself this new year? What are you looking forward to reading about as your future self? Comment below!