Will it matter in time?

Failing exams, poor performance, relationship break ups, job loss etc can undoubtedly result in high stress levels.

But how important will this situation be in the future?

Working through a five step time projection imagery process can help to create perspective and de-awfulise the situation.

Time Projection Imagery Process

1. Think of a current problem or situation that is causing you stress.

2. Picture yourself 3 months in the future. Will the current problem be as stressful as it

is now?

3. Picture yourself 6 months in the future. Will the current problem be as stressful or

important as it is now? Can you see yourself getting on with your life?

4 Picture yourself 12 months in the future. Will the current problem be as stressful or

as important as it is now? Will you laugh at your problem when you look back at it?

Can you see yourself having fun again?

5.Picture yourself 2 years in the future. Will the memory and significance of the

problem fade into the past?If you still find it difficult to imagine a positive future,

picture having a new job or career, different friends or whatever is appropriate.

Source: Adapted from Stephen Palmer and Cary Cooper 2013

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