Your Future Self by Hal Hershfield struck a chord with me as I delved into its exploration of the psychological and behavioral challenges of connecting with our future selves. Hershfield's extensive research over the past decade is distilled into a guide that is both enlightening and immediately practical.
From the outset, Hershfield poses a question that resonated deeply with me: Why do I—and so many others—often make choices that compromise our future well-being? He dives into the cognitive biases and emotional disconnects that cause us to favor short-term gratification over long-term benefits. With examples like choosing a steak over vegetables or spending on luxuries rather than saving for retirement, Hershfield highlights the universal struggle of aligning present actions with future goals.
“Your Future Self is filled with actionable methods, backed by his own and other academics’ research, and with a generous understanding of what it means to be a human, facing the future, right now.” - Carla Fried, UCLA Anderson Review
One key concept that Hershfield explores is "future self-distancedness," the tendency to view our future selves as separate from our current selves. This psychological distance often makes it easier for me to ignore the long-term consequences of my actions, leading to decisions that can harm my future self. Hershfield’s research shows that when I make an effort to connect with my future self, I am better equipped to make choices that positively impact my long-term well-being.
What I found particularly compelling about Your Future Self is its blend of rigorous research and practical advice. Hershfield doesn’t just identify the problem; he provides concrete strategies for overcoming it. From visualization techniques to behavioral nudges, the book offers tools that are straightforward and easy to integrate into my daily life.
"Your Future Self is at once mind-boggling and soul-stirring. Hal Hershfield makes complex science come alive — while also delivering practical tips to close the gap between who we are today and who we can become tomorrow. This is the rare book that will change whom you see in the mirror.” - Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Regret
Hershfield’s engaging and thought-provoking writing, supported by extensive research and relatable examples, makes complex psychological concepts accessible. The book is an invaluable resource for anyone like me who wants to enhance their decision-making and long-term planning.
Overall, Your Future Self is a must-read for those interested in personal development and behavioral psychology. It challenges me to rethink how I plan for the future and equips me with practical tools to bridge the gap between my present and future selves. Hershfield’s insights are both enlightening and motivating, providing a powerful guide for living a more intentional and fulfilling life.
About the Author
Hal Hershfield is a distinguished professor at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, specializing in marketing, behavioral decision-making, and psychology. Renowned for his innovative research on how we perceive our future selves, Hershfield has garnered acclaim and numerous accolades for his work in these fields. His groundbreaking studies have captured the attention of major media outlets, including NPR, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Boston Globe, the Washington Post, and The Atlantic. His findings have also been featured in top-tier academic journals and popular publications like the Harvard Business Review, Scientific American, and Psychology Today.
Product details
This hardcover edition, published by Little, Brown Spark on June 6, 2023, offers a comprehensive read in English. The book spans 304 pages and is identified by ISBN-10: 0316421251 and ISBN-13: 978-0316421256. It weighs 499 grams and measures 16.13 x 3.3 x 24.26 cm, making it a substantial and well-sized addition to any collection.
The book is available on Amazon and other leading bookstores across the world. Click here to buy: https://shorturl.at/CTC36
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